The 5000 years old Indian civilization has a tremendously rich tradition of philosophy, science and technology. Evidences are galore that study and practice of science and technology acquired an important position in ancient India.

The ruins of Indus valley civilization show their phenomenal expertise in town planning. The Vedas bear evidences of the growth of scientific knowledge and study later in the Aryan civilization. The ancient Indian philosophers contributed a lot in the study and research of mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, medical science and surgery. Proof of their technological knowledge lies in the fields of engineering, navigation and so on.

The world owes much to India in the field of mathematics. The most notable contribbution of ancient india was the concept of ‘Zero’ which was invented by the ancient mathematician Aryabhatta. Even roots of algebra and algorithm, square root and cube root can be traced in 4000 year old Vedic literature. Astronomical knowledge also recorded a considerable growth in ancient india. The splendid palaces, forts and temples dooted all over india speaks volumes for the advanced knowledge of engineering and technology in past India.

After a brief set back in the medieval era, there was a reawakening of scientific studies in India during the British rule. Under the European influence, the Indian scholars like: Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose, Prafulla Chandra Ray, Satyendranath Bose, Meghnad Saha, C. V. Raman took the scientific studies in India to a whole new height. The battons of achievement were carried on successfully by the scientists of modern India among whom Homi Jehangir Bhaba, S. Chandra Shekhar, Vikram Sarabhai are to name only a few.