Overview The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) hosted a significant technical session on Day 3 of the Empowering Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 . This session highlighted India’s advancements in Advanced Materials & Manufacturing , bringing together leading scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs to discuss transformative technologies shaping the nation’s innovation ecosystem. Key Developments Advanced Materials & Manufacturing Plenary The plenary session was chaired by Dr. (Mrs) N. Kalaiselvi , Director General, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR. Discussions centered on how advanced materials are redefining product realization, industrial design, and sustainability. Viksit Bharat 2047 Dr. Kalaiselvi emphasized that science, research and development, and advanced materials are key pillars for Viksit Bharat 2047 . Breakthroughs in materials science, clean energy, biotechnology, and emerging technologies will shape the country’s growth trajectory. CSIR and India’s premier scientific institutions are leading cutting-edge research, laying the foundation for a technologically empowered, self-reliant, and innovation-driven future. Keynote Address Prof. Giridhar Udapi Rao Kulkarni , Former President, JNCASR, Bengaluru, delivered the keynote address, explaining the global shift from matter to materials – from raw elements to engineered structures designed with precision, performance, and purpose. He illustrated how advanced materials are unlocking next-generation technologies and real-world products, powering India’s transformation. He emphasized that scientific innovation can drive manufacturing breakthroughs that accelerate India’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047 : Science → Innovation → Manufacturing → Product. Innovator Presentations Shri Pawan Kumar Chandana , Co-founder and CEO, Skyroot Aerospace , Hyderabad, spoke on “Elevating Aerospace: The Frontier of Advanced Composites and 3D Printing”, underlining indigenous innovation driving India’s private space sector. He mentioned that Skyroot Aerospace is developing India's first all-carbon launch vehicle, Vikram-1 . Smt. Rajashri Teli , Managing Director, Innovative Projects Pvt. Ltd., Pimpri, presented “From Blueprint to Breakthrough: When Precision Becomes a National Duty”, highlighting the importance of design accuracy and women-led leadership in manufacturing. Prof. T. Pradeep , IIT Madras, Chennai, discussed “Matter Dreams at Scale: Creating the Future of Materials”, focused on scalable nanotechnologies for clean water and sustainable solutions. Prof. B. S. Murty , Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru, focused on “Building India’s Quantum Edge”, showcasing advances in semiconductor design, photonics, and quantum computing. UPSC Relevance This event and its discussions are highly relevant for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, particularly for GS Paper III (Science and Technology) . The focus on advanced materials, manufacturing, and innovation aligns with the syllabus requirements for understanding technological advancements and their applications in various sectors. The emphasis on Viksit Bharat 2047 connects to the broader goals of economic development and self-reliance. Potential Exam Questions Discuss the role of advanced materials and manufacturing in achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047. Analyze the impact of public-private partnerships in driving innovation in the aerospace sector, with reference to Skyroot Aerospace. Evaluate the significance of nanotechnology in providing sustainable solutions for clean water and other environmental challenges. Examine the importance of semiconductor design, photonics, and quantum computing for India's technological advancement. Assess the role of institutions like CSIR in fostering scientific and technological self-reliance. Conclusion The ESTIC 2025 session reaffirmed CSIR’s commitment to advancing India’s scientific and technological frontiers. The exchange of ideas and innovations demonstrates how collaborative efforts are accelerating the nation’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy. The applied research showcased will be pivotal in fostering self-reliance, sustainable growth, and global competitiveness as India progresses toward Viksit Bharat 2047 .