CM’s Call to Blend Tradition With Technology

TIRUPATI: Calling for a balance between modern science and traditional learning, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has said India’s ancient knowledge systems must remain central to its scientific and intellectual progress.

Naidu was speaking at the seventh edition of the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan at the National Sanskrit University in Tirupati on Friday.

Addressing scientists, scholars and policymakers at the inaugural session, the Chief Minister said India should move forward in science and technology without distancing itself from its civilizational knowledge traditions.

Present at the inaugural event were RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Union minister of state for science and technology Jitendra Singh, state revenue minister Anagani Satya Prasad, Vigyana Bharati president Sekhar C Mande, National Sanskrit University vice-chancellor GSR Krishna Murthy and former DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy.

“Modernisation should not lead to the neglect of traditional learning, which has shaped Indian society for centuries. India has the capacity to emerge as a global leader in science and innovation while staying rooted in its intellectual heritage,” he said.

Stressing the importance of introducing young people to the nation’s cultural narratives at an early age, Naidu said parents and teachers have a key role in familiarising children with stories from the epics and other traditional sources. These, he said, would help inculcate values such as integrity, courage, responsibility and wisdom.

Referring to platforms such as the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan, he said they provided an opportunity to present our knowledge systems in a structured and contemporary manner. The Sammelan has helped “bring together diverse viewpoints and has encouraged meaningful dialogue on the relevance of traditional knowledge in addressing present-day challenges.”

Naidu recalled that the country once accounted for a significant share of the global economy, largely because it functioned as a knowledge-based society. Ethics and values are essential for nation-building, he said and underlined the role of social institutions in maintaining social cohesion.

The Chief Minister said he was confident India would become a leading global power by 2047. Growth should be inclusive and focused on reducing the economic disparities. He cited AP’s efforts to position itself as a hub for advanced technologies, with initiatives in areas such as quantum computing, green energy, artificial intelligence and innovation-led industries.

Naidu said, “The state is preparing to operate a quantum computer and steps are being taken to improve digital and telecom connectivity. Specialised centres such as a Space City in Tirupati, along with Drone City, Aerospace City, Electronics City and MedTech Parks are being developed across Andhra Pradesh.”