New Delhi, Aug. 12 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation during the ongoing 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics, highlighting its significance as "tradition meeting innovation, spirituality meeting science, curiosity meets creativity."

Welcoming the gathering from across 64 countries, PM Modi said, "It is a joy to connect with more than 300 shining stars from 64 countries. I warmly welcome you."

"The International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics in India (means) tradition meets innovation. Spirituality meets science. Curiosity meets creativity," PM Modi said in a virtual address.

Referring to India's rich astronomical heritage, he noted, "For centuries, Indians have been observing ...