Fusion of traditional knowledge, moderntechnology can give India advantage: Dr Jitendra

By statetimes_editor Last updated Dec 17, 2024

STATE TIMES NEWS

NEW DELHI: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the transformative potential of integrating India’s ancient knowledge with modern technology during the celebration of five years of the Science and Heritage Research Initiative (SHRI). Organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the event focused on preserving and modernizing India’s rich heritage while advancing scientific innovation. Dr. Singh emphasized that blending traditional wisdom with contemporary technology could provide India a unique global advantage, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh speaking during an event to celebrate five years of the “Science and Heritage Research Initiative” (SHRI) at New Delhi on Monday.

Dr. Singh lauded India’s heritage, noting its vast repository of nearly 5 million ancient manuscripts and significant monuments like Konark and Khajuraho, each a testament to the country’s scientific and architectural excellence. He pointed to key SHRI initiatives, such as non-invasive preservation techniques, digitalization of the Ajanta Caves, and artifact restoration, which demonstrate how heritage and technology can work together for societal progress.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to merging traditional knowledge with modern technologies, citing milestones like the creation of the AYUSH Ministry, the Aroma Mission, and the Hydrogen Mission. He praised the Lavender Revolution in Jammu and Kashmir, where CSIR’s Aroma Mission helped transform farmers’ livelihoods, and noted how projects like the Deep Sea and Hydrogen Missions are inspired by India’s ecological heritage.
Dr. Singh also underscored the importance of global recognition for India’s traditional knowledge, using the success of International Yoga Day as an example of how India’s heritage can offer universal solutions. He urged Indian scientific institutions to adopt global benchmarks and validate traditional knowledge to position India as a leader in the global knowledge economy by 2047.
The event also saw the unveiling of several innovative products under SHRI, including Kosh Shree, a Sanskrit dictionary crowdsourcing platform, and Sakshatkar, a coffee table book showcasing India’s contributions to global science. Dr. Singh introduced health innovations like the HerbaHeal cream and gel, rooted in Tamil Nadu’s tribal knowledge, and a yoga module for diabetes management based on ancient traditions.
Additionally, the Minister launched a virtual reality project, “Tales of Ajanta,” that brings the Ajanta Caves to life through modern technology, setting a new benchmark in heritage preservation. As India approaches its centenary of independence in 2047, Dr. Singh stressed the importance of blending heritage with innovation for sustainable global leadership.