C-DAC Key to India’s Space and Digital Future: Dr S. Somanath
Dignitaries highlight C-DAC’s strategic role in national missions on its 39th Foundation Day
HYDERABAD, MARCH 17, 2026: Mr S Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), addressed the 39th Foundation Day of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) virtually and lauded its pivotal role in advancing India’s capabilities in high-performance computing, cybersecurity, semiconductor technologies, and emerging digital domains.
Highlighting C-DAC’s contributions to key national initiatives such as the National Supercomputing Mission, National Semiconductor Mission, and National Quantum Mission, he said the organisation continues to strengthen India’s scientific and digital ecosystem through cutting-edge research and infrastructure. He emphasised the need to focus on emerging areas, including quantum computing, RISC-V, blockchain, and IoT, while calling for greater self-reliance in core technologies such as operating systems and databases. Krishnan also underscored the importance of stronger collaboration with industry, academia, and defence sectors, along with translational research that delivers real-world impact. He appreciated C-DAC’s expanding industry partnerships and its growing engagement in strategic sectors, and welcomed the initiative to host Foundation Day celebrations across centres, beginning with Hyderabad.
Addressing the gathering, Dr S. Somanath, former Chairman, ISRO, highlighted C-DAC’s critical role in advancing India’s space and digital capabilities. He noted the organisation’s strong legacy in supercomputing through the PARAM series and its collaboration with ISRO in developing computing and electronic systems for space missions.
Referring to evolving global trends, Dr. Somanath pointed to the rapid expansion of satellite constellations, the growing use of AI-driven autonomous systems, and the convergence of space technologies with emerging domains. Emphasising the need for technological self-reliance, he called for indigenous development of small-satellite platforms, supply chains, and critical components. He urged C-DAC to align its supercomputing mission with national priorities and play a leading role in strengthening India’s position in advanced computing and space technologies.
Mr Sudeep Shrivastava, Joint Secretary, MeitY, congratulated C-DAC on its 39th Foundation Day and highlighted its pivotal role in advancing India’s capabilities in emerging technologies. He emphasised the need to focus on people-centric solutions, bridge the gap between research and commercialisation, and uphold high standards of quality. He also underscored the importance of innovation, patents, and continuous striving for excellence.
Dr. E. Magesh, Director General, C-DAC; Dr. Randhir Thakur, CEO & MD, Tata Electronics Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy, Director, CSIR–Indian Institute of Chemical Technology; Prof. Rajat Moona, Director, Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar; and Sheena Rani R., DG (MED, COS & CS), Defence Research and Development Organisation, participated in the 39th Foundation Day celebrations.
The dignitaries underscored the importance of C-DAC in promoting innovation, self-reliance, and strategic collaboration, thereby positioning India as a global leader in critical and emerging technology domains.
