From a fledgling atomic energy programme to a declared nuclear weapons state, India's nuclear journey spans over eight decades of scientific ambition, strategic deterrence, and global integration.
The Indian government passes the Atomic Energy Act, establishing the Department of Atomic Energy and laying the legal framework for nuclear research.
India's first nuclear research reactor, Apsara, goes critical at Trombay, marking the country's entry into the nuclear age.
The Sino-Indian War prompts India to accelerate its nuclear weapons programme as a strategic deterrent against China.
India conducts its first nuclear test, codenamed Smiling Buddha, at Pokhran, becoming the world's sixth nuclear power.
India conducts a series of five nuclear tests under Operation Shakti, declaring itself a full-fledged nuclear weapons state.
The US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement is signed, ending India's nuclear isolation and enabling civilian nuclear trade.
India receives a waiver from the Nuclear Suppliers Group, allowing it to engage in civilian nuclear commerce.
India expands its civilian nuclear capacity with new units at Kudankulam, targeting 22 GW of nuclear capacity by 2032.
India's first human spaceflight programme aims to demonstrate indigenous capability to send humans to low-Earth orbit and return them safely. It marks a historic milestone for ISRO and Indian science.
Digital India is a flagship programme to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy, combining internet infrastructure, digital identity, and financial inclusion.