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News: This is the birth centenary year of Dr. Y. Nayudamma, Padma Shri recipient, noted scientist, former Director of the Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai and former Director-General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
| Humans have been propelled in the fields of science and technology since ancient civilisations. This has been due to a relentless quest for better living. That’s why human beings have now to be called a ‘technological animal’. |
What are the serious issues in blindfolded pursuit and application of science and technology?
At present, the developmental strategies are based on modern scientific and technological advances.
Consequential application of S&T have been resulting in rapid resource depletion, and ecological imbalances and inequities.
How has Dr. Nayudamma’s work been an effective agent of change?
Dr. Nayudamma reshaping of leather industry: He was a renowned leather scientist. Due to his efforts and contributions, the leather products and leather industry have gained better public acceptance. Indian leather products are in great demand in international markets now. He improved the skills of various communities associated to the leather industry. He was clearly an agent of social change.
The choice of technology should not be guided by ‘materialism and consumerism’. It should be based on spiritual pursuit for internal peace to live in harmony with society and nature. It can enable development that is in harmony with nature. This is rooted in Indian philosophy.
He advocated for the empowerment of all sections of society. For this, he advocated a bank account for women. This is aimed to enable financial inclusion and empowerment of women. The Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is guided by this philosophy.
He strongly advocated self-reliance in science and technology. This is also the essence of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
He advocated for all to live in dignity, have worth, equality of rights, better standards of life, security, etc. with the participation of all in national endeavours. This is the underlying principle of the philosophy of ‘Sab Ka Sath-Sab Ka Vikas-Sab Ka Prayas’.
We are living in times when “knowledge is the real power”. It is the best resource for every individual. Therefore, we need to empower all with knowledge. It will enable a resolution of the problems of our nation collectively.
He advocated education as a means to release the inner potential of all to make everyone self-reliant and self-confident.
He believed individual flourishes only with a sense of community participation and in an environment of collective endeavour. It can be achieved with the spirit of nationalism
He believed the environment was not a piece of real estate. It is a heritage which is a serious responsibility of all and to be held for future generations.
Ways Forward
India has been making concerted efforts to restore the pride of being a ‘Vishawaguru’. It requires streamlining our systems of education, modes of science and research.
What is needed are alternative development models to ensure sustainable and harmonious development.
Science and technology should be adapted to the people, instead of people having to adapt to science and technology.
Science should emerge from the felt needs and concerns of the people. It should not be driven from the top.
Source: The post is based on an article “A north pole for science and technology” published in The Hindu on 18th April 2022.
