Technology in a changing world
By In conclusion, I would like to list some | 15 May 2001
In conclusion, I would like to list some take-home points. These pertain to dealing with and assimilating technology, which I had earlier referred to as the greatest challenge in the twenty first century.
1. First, individuals must imbibe technology as a way of life.
2. Second, families must invest in higher education in technology for their children.
3. Third, societies must encourage the quest for discovery.
4. Fourth, corporates must invest in and create conducive environments for research.
5. Finally, our nation must measure and demand technology productivity from institutions.
Scientific research has been characterised by a search for the fundamental laws and principles that govern our natural world. Scientific discoveries during the last century have been profound. But the benefits of knowledge are only being tapped now. Complex problems of this century will be solved by scientific simulation that will synthesise the knowledge we have gained.
I must emphasise that technology, in itself, is not the sole panacea for all our problems. For scientific and technological development there are several other important ingredients - (1) competition, (2) private investment, (3) open access and free trade, (4) flexible government regulation, (5) universal consumer focused services and (6) cultural factors.
Free and open competition is the new religion of our times. We need to embrace it enthusiastically and wholeheartedly, and not reluctantly and unwillingly.
Why? Very simply because competition lowers prices, increases choices, improves quality and creates jobs. Creative competition will unleash innovations as well as stimulate consumer demand for new products and services. It will generate new and higher paying jobs. It will usher in an economy better prepared for the challenges of the 21st Century.
In essence, while we need not overlook civilisational, educational, psychological, economic and administrative factors in successful harnessing of human resources for growth, technology will remain the driving force of quantum change in the new age.
I would also like to stress that technology is a continuum. Convergence of technologies is creating several new opportunities. In this continuum, we will see biotechnology and information technology creating opportunities at their crossroads with other sectors.
Friends,
The twentieth century belonged to civics and economics. It will be remembered for two world wars, the rise of democracy, capitalism, globalisation and management. The twenty first century will belong to technology. Two great technologies – biotechnology and infocom – will spectacularly change the life, living and living systems.
Technology is transforming individuals. It is reshaping personal relations. It is replacing the form of governance. It is substituting official secrets by public transparency. It is reinventing commerce and restructuring industry. It is redefining education. It is giving a new meaning to national sovereignty. Technology is revolutionising attitudes, anxieties and concerns. The technology divide may become the gravest source of concern. Unless we are vigilant, every society – in fact the whole world – may develop into two camps; those who can cope with and use new technologies and those who cannot. That may have a very serious implication for societal tensions.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Technology is giving rise to new challenges. At the same time, it is presenting unprecedented opportunities for creating a great India, an economic and knowledge superpower, in a new world. Let us seize this opportunity.
Thank you.
