Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government's Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country.

            Nanotechnology is considered as one of the key technologies of century because it has revolutionised various fields. The unexplored potential of nanotechnology numerous applications in various fields have opened up enormous possibilities. Along with internet and information technology (IT), nanotechnology is considered as one of the rapidly booming sectors. 

           The use of particles smaller than 100 nanometers makes them to exhibit significantly altered properties because of the increased surface-to-mass ratio. Nanotechnology still being in its nascent phase provides India with an opportunity to take lead in the sector. Ig was launched initially in 2007, as the Mission on Nano Science and Technology (Nano Mission) and its second phase was rolled out as part of 12th Five Year Plan. Department of Science and Technology is its nodal agency of implementation. 

Salient features of the mission are,

• Capacity building in research 
• Training and creation of skilled manpower 
• Development of products and process which use nanotechnology
• Establishment of linkages between industries, educational institutions, and promotion of public private partnerships. 
• Introduction of educational  programmers (Msc and M Tech) 
• Promotion of foreign collaboration 
• Provision for loans for startups firms up to Rs.10 crore.

    The mission aims to make India a Global Knowledge Hub in nanotechnology. Nano technology has revolutionized the fields of material development, drug delivery, environmental management, etc. 

Some prominent applications in the development of country are

• Nano delivery of water, nutrients, pesticides and fertilizers to improve farm efficiency.
• Nano sensors to monitor soil and plant health 
• Nano delivery of drugs in animals as well as humans. To improve their effectiveness. Nano drug and Nanocoat are two recently developed drug delivery technologies.
• Nanoscale computing and data storage can decrease the size of storage discs. 
• Use of nanoparticles of titanium oxide to improve effect of sunscreen lotions.