Page 18 - NIS English 01-15 Aug, 2026

th

Independence Day Special
Cover Story

3 Science, Technology,

and Space

While science, technology, and the digital revolution have taken
development directly to the marginalized people, this progress has
also earned India a new identity on the global stage.

19

The number of broadband internet subscribers
reached
106.58

crore by the end of March 2026. ‘Last-mile’ 22
digital connectivity has been strengthened. 5+

20 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs) operational

950+ improved digital access to and delivery of citizen
by April 2026, up from 83,000 in 2014. This has

crore digital documents have services in both rural and urban areas.
been issued via DigiLocker. Now,
essential documents are available
to you anytime, anywhere—
accessible with a single click and
free from paperwork hassles.
n An online facility for 'Jeevan Pramaan' (life
certification) was made available for pensioners.

21

23

The Open Network for Digital Commerce India created history in the space sector with
(ONDC) has provided small traders with ‘Mangalyaan’. The spacecraft entered Mars’ orbit on
digital access comparable to that of September 24, 2014, making India the first country
major e-commerce platforms. in the world to reach Mars on its maiden attempt.

16 NEW INDIA SAMACHAR || Aug 01-15, 2026