Yogesh
Srinagar, Apr 2: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha issued a stark warning on Wednesday, cautioning that India risks becoming a “digital colony” of technologically advanced nations unless its educational institutions and youth urgently prioritize innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI).
Speaking at the Alumni Meet of Sharda University held at the SKICC in Srinagar, LG Sinha identified the need for self-reliance in technology and called for a transformative approach to education and research.
In his speech, LG Sinha focused on India’s lag in AI development compared to global leaders like the U.S. and China. He pointed to China’s recent launch of the DeepSeek AI model as a wake-up call, questioning why India had yet to produce comparable breakthroughs. “While other nations are pioneering AI, we remain consumers rather than creators of this technology. If we do not act now, we risk becoming a digital colony, dependent on foreign innovations,” he warned.
To counter this trend, Sinha outlined several key measures. He stressed the need for universities to integrate cutting-edge research into their curricula and foster stronger ties with industries. He praised the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a transformative step toward promoting critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
Additionally, he highlighted the growth of Jammu and Kashmir’s startup ecosystem, noting that over 1,000 startups, including many led by women, have been registered in the region. “I have had the privilege of attending convocations in nearly every university in Jammu and Kashmir. The most satisfying thing for me is that in every convocation I attend, at least 70% of gold medals are won by girls. Over 70% of graduates are girls. The youth are full of energy. We must ignite the fire within them so they can move forward with new energy and strength.”
Referencing Kalhana’s 11th-century work Rajatarangini, which described the region as the sacred abode of Goddess Sharada, the embodiment of knowledge, Sinha linked this historical legacy to modern-day challenges, urging students and educators to reignite India’s tradition of innovation.
Highlighting the importance of risk-taking and creativity, the Lieutenant Governor recounted the story of Steve Jobs and Apple’s rise to global prominence. He cited Jobs’ famous mantra, “Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish,” as a guiding principle for young Indians. “Jobs dropped out of college but never stopped learning. His willingness to challenge conventions and embrace failure led to revolutionary innovations,” Sinha said, encouraging students to adopt a similar mindset.
Drawing lessons from history, Sinha reminded the audience of India’s past technological prowess, such as the production of Wootz Steel, one of the finest metals in ancient times, gifted by King Porus to Alexander the Great. He also noted how Indian sailors mastered navigation long before Western science developed similar techniques. “We were once the ‘Golden Bird’ because of our innovations, not just our resources. We must reclaim that spirit,” he said.
Looking ahead, Sinha outlined his vision for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, highlighting the role of youth and education in achieving this goal. He celebrated the academic achievements of women in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that they now win over 70% of gold medals in university convocations. He also called for closer collaboration between academia and industry to ensure that education translates into real-world solutions.
Sinha urged alumni to mentor the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. “Degrees alone are not enough. We must equip our youth with the skills to invent, adapt, and lead,” he said.
Sinha expressed confidence that institutions like Sharda University could play a pivotal role in shaping India’s technological future. “Our goal is not just to award degrees but to equip students with skills that enable them to innovate, learn, and succeed in life. This is the greatest need today. To all alumni present here, many of you in years to come will be at the peak of your careers. People like me won’t be around then, but your creativity and imagination will remain.”
