Thiruvananthapuram, July 17 (IANS) Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has said that technology and innovation must always be guided by human values and compassion.

He stressed on Thursday that scientific progress has real meaning only when it improves people’s lives and contributes to the welfare of society.

The Governor was inaugurating the T-RIC X Impact Research Conclave and ANRF Grantee Meet at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST).

Addressing scientists, doctors, researchers, innovators and policymakers, Arlekar said that technology has advanced rapidly over the years.

“However, its true significance lies in its ability to solve real life problems and benefit society.”

He added that research conducted in laboratories and clinical studies becomes meaningful only when it reaches people and improves their quality of life.

Scientific discoveries, he said, should not remain confined to research papers but must be translated into practical solutions that benefit the common man.

The Governor praised the conclave for bringing together researchers, clinicians, innovators and policymakers on a single platform.

Such collaboration, he said, is essential for turning research into technologies that make a difference in people’s lives.

Highlighting the need for inclusive innovation, Arlekar added that technological advancements should reach every section of society, including farmers and people living in underserved areas.

Science and technology, he noted, should work to reduce inequalities and make life better for ordinary citizens.

He cautioned that innovation should never lose its human dimension.

“Innovation without compassion would amount to ‘heartless progress’,” the Governor said, stressing that “technology must always retain a human touch”.

Calling upon researchers and innovators to keep compassion and social responsibility at the centre of their work, Arlekar added that the true measure of scientific progress lies not in the number of inventions but in how effectively they serve society.

Referring to the national vision of “Viksit Bharat @2047”, the Governor said it represents a shared aspiration that requires the participation of every citizen.

Research, innovation and technological development, he added, must all be directed towards improving people’s lives and building a stronger nation.

He also underlined Kerala’s important role in this journey, stating that “the path to Viksit Bharat passes through Viksit Keralam”.

“With its strong tradition in healthcare, education and scientific research, Kerala has the potential to make a significant contribution to India’s development story,” he added.

–IANS

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