Nalanda University Advocates for Offline Digital Solutions at National Tribal Technology Conference
Nalanda University (NU) has reinforced its pivotal role in shaping national policy and development discourse through active participation in a significant two-day national conference held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, which successfully concluded on Monday. The event, titled “Technology and Science for Transformation of Tribal India – Opportunities, Aspirations and Pathways,” was inaugurated by Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, highlighting its importance in the national agenda.
Conference Organization and Key Participants
This high-profile gathering was meticulously organized by the Department of Science and Technology in collaboration with the North East Centre for Technology Application and Research and Doon Sanskriti School. It brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including policymakers, academicians, and industry experts, to deliberate on transformative strategies for tribal communities across India.
On the second day of the conference, NU Vice-Chancellor Sachin Chaturvedi chaired a crucial session focused on “Technology for Livelihoods, Entrepreneurship and Community Empowerment.” This session featured insightful contributions from distinguished experts such as Arun Kumar Sharma, Amey Karkare, Anurag Pandey, and Manipur-based entrepreneur N Irabanta Singh. Their discussions centered on leveraging technology to create sustainable livelihoods and empower grassroots communities, particularly in underserved tribal regions.
Emphasis on Offline Digital Infrastructure for Financial Inclusion
In his address during the session, Vice-Chancellor Chaturvedi underscored the urgent necessity for developing robust digital infrastructure that can operate effectively without reliance on internet connectivity or continuous electricity supply. He articulated that such innovations are critical to ensuring comprehensive financial inclusion in remote and tribal areas, where traditional banking and digital services often face significant barriers.
Chaturvedi proposed a strategic linkage between the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana and advanced digital public infrastructure, arguing that this integration could dramatically enhance the scheme's reach and impact. By enabling offline functionality, these technological solutions would allow tribal communities to access financial services, fostering economic resilience and reducing dependency on conventional systems.
Nalanda University's Ongoing Commitment to Inclusive Development
Through its involvement in this conference, Nalanda University has reiterated its steadfast commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue that seamlessly integrates knowledge, technology, and inclusive development. The university's proactive engagement underscores its dedication to addressing pressing societal challenges and contributing to national progress, particularly in areas related to tribal welfare and technological advancement.
The conference served as a vital platform for exchanging ideas and formulating actionable pathways to harness science and technology for the holistic transformation of tribal India. Nalanda University's contributions are expected to influence future policy directions and inspire collaborative efforts aimed at bridging the digital divide and promoting sustainable development across the country.
