C-DAC Key to Advancing India’s Space, Digital Capabilities: former ISRO Chairman Somanath

Hyderabad, Mar 17 (TNT): Former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath on Tuesday highlighted the critical role of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in advancing India’s space and digital capabilities.

Addressing the 39th Foundation Day of C-DAC here, Somanath noted the organisation’s legacy in supercomputing through the PARAM series and its collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in developing computing and electronic systems for space missions.
Referring to evolving global trends, Somanath pointed to the rapid expansion of satellite constellations, growing use of AI-driven autonomous systems and the convergence of space technologies with emerging domains.
He called for indigenous development of small-satellite platforms, supply chains and critical components, and urged C-DAC to align its supercomputing mission with national priorities.
Speaking virtually, S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), lauded C-DAC for its pivotal role in advancing India’s capabilities in high-performance computing, cybersecurity, semiconductor technologies and emerging digital domains.
He highlighted the organisation’s contributions to key national initiatives such as the National Supercomputing Mission, National Semiconductor Mission and National Quantum Mission, and said it continues to strengthen India’s scientific and digital ecosystem through cutting-edge research and infrastructure.
Krishnan emphasised the need to focus on emerging areas including quantum computing, RISC-V, blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT), while calling for greater self-reliance in core technologies such as operating systems and databases.
He also underscored the importance of stronger collaboration with industry, academia and defence sectors, along with translational research delivering real-world impact.
Sudeep Shrivastava, Joint Secretary, MeitY, stressed the need for people-centric solutions, bridging the gap between research and commercialisation, and maintaining high standards of quality, innovation and patents.
The event saw participation from officials across government, industry and academia, including representatives of Tata Electronics and other organisations.
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