Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday greeted the nation on the occasion of National Technology Day, which is celebrated on May 11 to mark the anniversary of the Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998.

“Greetings on National Technology Day! We remember with immense pride the accomplishment of our scientists on this day in 1998. The hard work of our scientists has always ensured a stronger and safer India. May we continue leveraging the power of technology for national progress,” the Prime Minister tweeted.

It was on May 11, 1998 that a team of scientists, led by late President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, test-fired the country’s first nuclear-capable missile Shakti-1 at Rajasthan’s Pokhran test range.

“Greetings to our scientific community on National Technology Day, marking the anniversary of the Pokhran Tests of 1998. India is committed to using technology to accelerate the developmental process, and ensure a dignified existence for every citizen,” said President Ram Nath Kovind in another post.

India also chose May 11 to fly its first indigenous aircraft, Hansa-3, a two-seater, light general aviation plane frequently used in flying schools for pilot training and sports purposes. The aircraft was developed by the National Aerospace Laboratories.