India has demonstrated its growing prowess in science and technology with several notable achievements in recent days, reinforcing its vision of an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India).
Indigenous 4G Network Launched Across India
India has successfully rolled out its first fully indigenous 4G (5G-ready) network, a monumental step towards digital sovereignty. This initiative includes the deployment of nearly 98,000 'Swadeshi' 4G towers, powered entirely by homegrown technology. The network's core was developed by C-DOT, with Tejas Networks providing the Radio Access Network, and integration handled by TCS. This technological breakthrough places India among a select group of five nations capable of deploying fully homegrown 4G services. Complementary government initiatives, such as the Bharat 6G Alliance, 100 5G/6G labs, and the Telecom Technology Development Fund, are further propelling research and innovation, aiming for India to lead in next-generation telecom by 2030. The indigenous 4G stack's software-first, cloud-native design allows for rapid upgrades, scalability, and a future-ready migration path to 5G. Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially unveiled this network on September 27, 2025.
IISc Develops Breakthrough Siphon-Powered Desalination System
In a significant boost for global water security, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed an innovative siphon-powered thermal desalination system. This new system is designed to convert seawater into clean drinking water more quickly, affordably, and efficiently than conventional methods. This advancement holds immense potential for addressing water scarcity challenges, particularly in coastal regions and areas reliant on non-potable water sources.
Raman Research Institute Unveils Advanced Dual-Trap Optical Tweezers
Scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) have developed a novel dual-trap optical tweezers system, providing a more precise and versatile tool for manipulating single biomolecules and small particles. This sophisticated technology is expected to accelerate discoveries in various fields, including neuroscience, drug development, and other areas of biology, medicine, and nanoscience.
AstroSat Completes a Decade in Orbit
India's first multi-wavelength astronomy observatory, AstroSat, has successfully completed a decade in orbit. Launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), AstroSat has been instrumental in providing valuable data across various electromagnetic spectra, contributing significantly to global astronomical research. Its continued operation highlights India's sustained capabilities in space-based scientific observation.