THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR, DELHI

• Hon’ble Vice president of India, Shri. C. P. Radhakrishnan Ji,

• Hon’ble Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh ji, 

• Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister Arunachal Pradesh Mr. Chowna Mein Ji

• Dr. Abhay karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology

• Mr Kapil mishra Ji Minister Delhi. 

• Padmashri Techi Gubin (Arunachal)

• Mr. Jigmet Ji.

• Shri. Tarun Vijay Ji.

   

        It is a privilege, to address this national conclave on “Transforming Tribal Lives, through Science and Technology.” I thank the organisers for inviting me, to be part of this important occasion, which marks the silver jubilee of, the ITITI Doon Sanskriti School, and reflects a sustained commitment, to inclusive development.

        I congratulate the founders, teachers, staff, & the community. You have built something, truly meaningful.

        This gathering is significant, not only because it commemorates, an institutional milestone, but also, because it brings into focus, a broader national priority—how to ensure, that the benefits of growth, innovation, and technological progress, reach all sections of society, in a meaningful and equitable manner.

        India’s tribal communities represent, both diversity and depth, within our national fabric. As the Hon’ble Vice President, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, has observed, our tribal communities are not just beneficiaries of development—they are the guardians of our forests, culture, and heritage. Their wisdom and sustainable way of life hold deep relevance even today. True progress lies in empowering them while preserving their rich traditions.” At the same time, many in tribal areas, continue to face structural challenges. Access to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic opportunities, not been easy. 

This is where institutions, like ITITI, make a difference. 

        They bring education, close to those, who need it most. Education is not just about, reading. and writing. It gives confidence. It gives dignity. It gives choices, in life.               

        Today, the world is changing fast. Science and technology, are opening new doors. Students can learn, through digital platforms. They can access knowledge, from anywhere. Distance is no longer, a barrier.

        Secondly, technology is also helping, in healthcare. Services like telemedicine, are reaching remote areas. This can directly improve health outcomes, and reduce long-term vulnerabilities, within communities.

        Third, in livelihoods, technology can enhance productivity, and income generation.

        In agriculture, climate-resilient crop models, and access to real-time market information, can improve both yield, and better income.

        In forest-based economies, technology can support, value addition, supply chain integration, and better market access, for forest produce.

        Fourth, digital connectivity, plays a foundational role. Access to internet, and mobile networks, enables financial inclusion through digital payments, & access to government services.        Fifth, emerging technologies, such as AI, are beginning to open new possibilities.

        When adapted appropriately, these tools can be used, for local problem-solving, whether in resource management, climate adaptation, or service delivery.

        Such efforts may, over time, help create pathways, for participation in sectors, that are becoming increasingly important, in the global economy.

        But we must remember one thing.  Technology, in itself, is only an enabler. Its value depends, on how we use it. It must be simple & useful. It must suit local needs. It must be available, for everyone.

        Another important consideration, is the relationship between development, and cultural continuity. As new tools and systems, are introduced, it is equally important, to recognise and preserve, the knowledge systems, traditions, and identities of tribal communities.

                From a broader perspective, the inclusion of tribal communities, in India’s technology, and economic transformation contributes, to a more balanced, and resilient development process.

        It also aligns, with the larger objective, of ensuring that progress, is shared across, different segments of society.

        For the students, present here today, Access to education, and exposure to new technologies, can open pathways, that were not previously available. At the same time, there is value in remaining, connected to one’s roots, and in contributing to the development, of one’s own community.

        In that sense, the process of transformation, is not only institutional, but also individual, and collective.

        The transformation of tribal lives, through science and technology, is a gradual process. It requires coordinated efforts, over time of government institutions, research bodies, industry, and community stakeholders.

                Progress in this area, depends on sustained engagement, appropriate application of technology, and continuous feedback, from the ground.

        We are reminded of the words of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, who has often said that tribal communities, are at the heart of India’s identity, and that true development, must reach the last mile. Institutions like this school, reflect that vision in action — nurturing young minds, while preserving culture, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging.

        I am confident, that the discussions, at this conclave, will contribute to a deeper understanding, of these issues, and help identify, practical pathways forward.

Thank you.

JAI HIND.