Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The notion of ‘modernity’ encompasses not just technological advancement, but also societal changes like industrialization, urbanization, secularization, and the adoption of democratic values. Post-Independence India, inheriting a largely agrarian economy and a colonial past, embarked on a path of planned development, prioritizing science and technology as key drivers of progress. From the establishment of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in 1942 (even before independence, laying the groundwork) to the digital revolution of the 21st century, India has witnessed significant strides in S&T. However, the question remains: to what extent have these developments truly propelled India onto the path of modernity, and have the benefits been equitably distributed?
Early Phase (1947-1960s): Laying the Foundation
The initial focus was on building indigenous capabilities in crucial sectors. The establishment of national laboratories under CSIR, the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) starting in 1951, and the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) in 1948 were pivotal. These institutions aimed to reduce dependence on foreign technology and foster self-reliance.
- Agriculture: The Green Revolution (mid-1960s onwards), driven by high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice developed by scientists like M.S. Swaminathan, dramatically increased food production, averting famine and contributing to economic stability. However, it also led to regional disparities and environmental concerns.
- Industrialization: The emphasis on heavy industries, guided by the Industrial Policy Resolution of 1956, aimed to build a strong industrial base. Public sector undertakings (PSUs) like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) were established, but often suffered from inefficiency and bureaucratic hurdles.
The Space and Nuclear Programs (1960s-1990s): Demonstrating Technological Prowess
This period saw India asserting its technological capabilities on the global stage.
- Space Program: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), established in 1969, achieved remarkable feats, including the launch of India’s first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. The development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) demonstrated indigenous launch capabilities and positioned India as a key player in space technology.
- Nuclear Program: India’s peaceful nuclear explosion in 1974 (Pokhran-I) demonstrated its nuclear capability, though it also led to international scrutiny and sanctions.
Liberalization and the IT Revolution (1990s-2000s): A Paradigm Shift
The economic liberalization of 1991 unleashed the potential of the Indian private sector, particularly in the information technology (IT) sector.
- IT Sector: India emerged as a global hub for IT services and business process outsourcing (BPO), driven by a skilled English-speaking workforce and relatively low labor costs. Companies like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro became global brands. This sector contributed significantly to economic growth and employment.
- Telecommunications: The telecom revolution, spurred by private sector participation, led to a rapid increase in mobile phone penetration, connecting millions of Indians and facilitating access to information and services.
Recent Developments (2000s-Present): Focus on Innovation and Digital India
The focus has shifted towards fostering innovation, promoting digital inclusion, and addressing societal challenges.
- Digital India Initiative (2015): Aimed at transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy, focusing on digital infrastructure, digital delivery of services, and digital literacy.
- Healthcare: Advancements in medical technology, including vaccines (like the indigenous COVID-19 vaccines), diagnostics, and telemedicine, have improved healthcare access and outcomes.
- Renewable Energy: India has made significant progress in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, driven by government policies and falling technology costs.
| Sector | Key Developments | Impact on Modernity |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Green Revolution, Biotechnology | Increased food security, but also environmental concerns and regional disparities. |
| Space | PSLV, GSLV, Satellite Technology | Enhanced national prestige, improved communication, weather forecasting, and remote sensing capabilities. |
| IT | Software Exports, BPO, Digital India | Economic growth, employment generation, increased access to information, and digital inclusion. |
| Healthcare | Vaccine Development, Telemedicine | Improved public health, increased life expectancy, and better healthcare access. |
Conclusion
While India has made remarkable progress in science and technology since independence, its journey towards modernity remains incomplete. The benefits of these advancements have not been evenly distributed, with significant disparities persisting between urban and rural areas, and across different socio-economic groups. Furthermore, challenges like environmental degradation, social inequalities, and the need for greater investment in basic research require sustained attention. Continued focus on innovation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development is crucial to fully realize the transformative potential of S&T and propel India further on the path of modernity.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.