Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma today inaugurated the India International Science Festival (IISF) at IIT-Guwahati, addressing a gathering of young scholars and innovators with a call to leverage technology for national growth and global leadership.
Highlighting the critical role of science and technology in shaping a nation’s future, CM Sarma remarked, “In today’s world, a nation’s prosperity is tied to the integration of technology, resources, and capital. Among these, technology stands out as the most transformative force. By harnessing the disciplined pursuit of science, a nation can overcome resource limitations and reduce its dependence on external capital.”
He elaborated on how scientific innovation serves as a catalyst for social equity and poverty alleviation, driving advancements across critical sectors including agriculture, healthcare, energy, environmental conservation, and transportation.
“Science is the engine behind advancements that improve human life and pave the way for a brighter future. India has always been a beacon of technological innovation, with a rich legacy of contributions in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy,” Sarma said, reflecting on India’s historical achievements. He cited ancient learning centers like Takshila and Nalanda and luminaries such as Aryabhatta and Sushruta as evidence of the nation’s profound global knowledge legacy.
The Chief Minister’s inspiring speech urged the young innovators present to channel their creativity and innovation into building a technologically empowered and self-reliant India. The IISF at IIT-Guwahati continues to serve as a platform for fostering collaboration among scientists, innovators, and students from across the country.