India's scientific and technological landscape witnessed several significant developments in the last 24 hours, spanning space exploration, medical breakthroughs, and strategic initiatives to boost innovation. These advancements underscore India's growing capabilities and ambition to become a global leader in science and technology.
ISRO's Chandrayaan-2 Makes Historic Lunar Observation
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on Saturday, October 18, 2025, that its Chandrayaan-2 mission has made the first-ever observation of the Sun's Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) effects on the Moon. Using its onboard scientific instruments, the mission's findings are crucial for understanding the lunar exosphere ā the Moon's very thin atmosphere ā and the broader impact of space weather on its surface. This observation is a significant step towards comprehending the Moon's vulnerability to solar activity, especially as nations plan long-duration missions and potential surface habitats.
India Develops First Indigenous Antibiotic, Nafithromycin
In a major pharmaceutical breakthrough, Union Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed on October 18, 2025, that India has successfully developed its first indigenously discovered antibiotic, Nafithromycin. This antibiotic is reported to be effective against resistant respiratory infections, offering particular benefits for cancer patients and individuals with poorly controlled diabetes. This achievement marks a significant milestone in India's pursuit of self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.
Major Science & Technology Conclaves on the Horizon
India is gearing up to host two pivotal events aimed at accelerating its scientific and technological progress. The Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC-2025) is scheduled from November 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Touted as India's flagship S&T conclave, ESTIC-2025 will bring together top scientific minds, innovators, and policymakers under the theme "Imagine, Innovate, Inspire for Viksit Bharat 2047." The conclave will feature 11 thematic sessions covering advanced materials, AI, bio-manufacturing, blue economy, digital communications, electronics, agricultural technologies, energy, health, quantum science, and space technologies.
Additionally, the India International Science Festival (IISF-2025), slated for October 2025, aims to showcase the country's scientific achievements, foster innovation, and boost tourism. Both events are designed to promote collaboration, attract international participants, and solidify India's position as a global leader in scientific innovation.
Innovative Food Safety and Railway Technology
Indian scientists have also made strides in practical applications of science. A team from the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru, supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has developed a low-cost method using the "coffee-stain effect" to detect toxic dyes and contaminants in food products at trillionth levels. This breakthrough offers an affordable solution for enhanced food safety testing.
In the realm of railway safety, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art KAVACH Lab Model at the Signal and Telecom Specialized Training Centre (STC), Pandu, Guwahati. KAVACH is India's indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, and this new lab will simulate realistic train scenarios to further enhance railway safety and efficiency.