Raipur: President of India, Droupadi Murmu, addressed the graduates and faculty of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Raipur at its 14th convocation today. In a speech that inspired students to lead with both technological innovation and a sense of social responsibility, President Murmu emphasized the importance of a balanced, ethical approach to progress.
Highlighting the essential role of science in technological advancement, President Murmu referred to the achievements of the 2024 Nobel Prize laureates in Physics and Chemistry, who were recognized for their contributions to Artificial Intelligence. She noted how AI-related discoveries—ranging from artificial neural networks to micro-RNA research and protein structure prediction—were achieved by transcending traditional scientific boundaries. “The interdisciplinary approach,” she observed, “encourages innovation, especially in engineering.”
Reflecting on India’s role in the global AI landscape, President Murmu pointed out that India is a founding member of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence. She remarked that AI has far-reaching implications, impacting social, political, economic, and strategic spheres worldwide. This transformative technology, she said, “will open new avenues for our young engineers” and position them to make a substantial difference across industries.
Stressing the relevance of localized problem-solving, the President urged students and faculty to focus on creating affordable solutions tailored to India’s unique challenges. “Think Global, Act Local” should be the guiding principle, she suggested, to ensure that communities also benefit from the expertise honed in these institutions. “Their professional perspective should be global, but local people should also benefit from their expertise,” she said.
The President also imparted wisdom on personal and professional values, encouraging students to reflect on their aspirations. She challenged them to think beyond personal gains, asking if they would prioritize only individual success or aim to uplift society and the nation as a whole. “If they would compromise moral values for material success…working for the welfare of others makes personal life meaningful and improves social life,” she noted. President Murmu concluded by stating that true personal growth comes from expanding the scope of one’s contributions, motivating the graduates to lead with integrity and compassion.
