India's scientific and technological landscape continues to evolve rapidly, marked by several significant developments over the last 24-48 hours. These advancements demonstrate the nation's strategic focus on high-tech sectors and its ambition to foster indigenous innovation.
ISRO Prepares for Heaviest Communication Satellite Launch
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) commenced the 24-hour countdown on Saturday, November 1, 2025, for the launch of its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03. Scheduled for lift-off on November 2, 2025, the 4,410 kg satellite will be launched from Sriharikota by the LVM3-M5 rocket, often referred to as 'Bahubali' due to its heavy-lift capabilities. The CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite designed to provide services over a wide oceanic region, including the Indian landmass, and is expected to serve military purposes. This mission marks the LVM3's fifth operational flight and will replace the GSAT-7 satellite launched in 2013.
Foundation Laid for Major Semiconductor Plant in Bhubaneswar
In a significant boost to India's manufacturing capabilities, the foundation stone for a silicon carbide semiconductor production plant was laid in Bhubaneswar on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Approved under the ambitious India Semiconductor Mission, this integrated facility represents an investment of ā¹2,067 crore and is being set up by SiCSem Private Limited, a subsidiary of Archean Chemical Industries Limited. The plant is projected to become operational by 2027-28 and is expected to significantly contribute to nurturing innovation, research, and skill development in the region.
Indian Startup Patents Breath-Based Cancer Detection Technology
Indian deep-tech startup Accubits Invent Pvt Ltd has secured a patent for a groundbreaking breath-based Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) sensor, named VolTrac, that promises to revolutionize non-invasive medical diagnostics. Announced on November 1, 2025, this technology can detect diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, and metabolic disorders within minutes, achieving a lab-verified accuracy rate of 98.5%. The device analyzes VOCs emitted through human breath and sweat, identifying distinct molecular patterns associated with various diseases in under 90 seconds. This innovation positions India at the forefront of non-invasive disease screening, offering potential for early detection and significant reductions in healthcare costs. Accubits Invent has also developed DeTecX, a rapid air-quality and hygiene monitoring system capable of detecting airborne pathogens and microbial contamination.
Upcoming Conclave and Broader S&T Vision
Further highlighting India's scientific drive, the government's first Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) is scheduled to take place from November 3 to 5, 2025, in New Delhi. This conclave aims to bring together leading scientists, innovators, and policymakers to deliberate on the future of emerging technologies and align innovation with national priorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also recently shared an article by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on November 1, 2025, emphasizing India's remarkable progress from Digital India to Deep Tech and the bioeconomy, asserting that a confident 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) is now inspiring the world. These developments collectively underscore India's robust and expanding presence in the global science and technology arena.