Awards show how far China has come, how far it has to go

Hybrid rice, high-speed railways, or the Chang'e 4 lunar probe which made an unprecedented landing on the far side of the moon last week are likely what first come to mind when considering China's science and technology achievements.

Yet the names of the scientists and engineers who are behind these scientific and engineering wonders may not necessarily be known to the public despite their distinguished contributions. Thus a grand ceremony has been held each year since 2000 in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to honor those unsung heroes who have helped China stand tall in the world with its scientific knowledge and technology.

On Tuesday President Xi Jinping presented the top awards to two military technology experts, Liu Yongtan, for his achievements in radar technology; and Qian Qihu, for his contribution to national defense infrastructure projects. They joined the 29 elite scientists who have won the award over the previous years.