Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 3 Sep: A seminar on “Environment and AI for Amrit Kaal” was organised at the Lok Bhavan, here, on Thursday. The central theme of the seminar was “Artificial Intelligence for a Sustainable Himalayan Future”. Experts shared their views on environmental conservation, climate change, Himalayan ecology, and the effective use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Addressing the seminar as the Chief Guest, Governor Lt General Gurmit Singh (Retd) said that environmental degradation, ecological concerns, and climate change are among the major challenges facing the world today. At such a time, there is a need to view one of the significant achievements of the 21st century—Artificial Intelligence—in conjunction with nature. He said that challenges can also become opportunities if efforts are made to find solutions through technology.
The Governor said there are several apprehensions in people’s minds regarding Artificial Intelligence. What is needed is to understand the technology and use it responsibly for human welfare and the conservation of nature. He said that with the help of Artificial Intelligence, better understanding of natural intelligence can be developed.
He said that nature has shown us the path to life and prosperity. Development will be meaningful only when technological advancement goes hand in hand with ecological balance. The Himalayas and their natural resources are invaluable to us. Therefore, it is essential to maintain harmony with nature while determining the direction of development.
The Governor added that the nature of global competition is changing rapidly, and sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, modern technology, and manufacturing will play an important role in the future. He called upon the youth to move forward in the fields of innovation and technological knowledge. He expressed confidence that India’s youth, through their talent and innovation, will create a new identity for the country at the global level.
Speaking at the seminar, Padma Shri awardee Dr Anil Prakash Joshi, founder of HESCO, emphasised the importance of nature and Natural Intelligence. He said that technological development alone is not sufficient; real and sustainable prosperity can be achieved only by maintaining harmony with nature. He stated that the integration of Artificial Intelligence and Natural Intelligence is the need of the hour.
Dr Shekhar C Mande, President of the Indian National Science Academy and former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), provided insights into the basic concept of Artificial Intelligence and its various applications. He explained how Artificial Intelligence can prove useful in our daily lives and across different sectors. Dr MM Tripathi, Director General of the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), delivered an online presentation on expanding AI-based courses. He emphasised the need to provide young people and students with training in emerging technologies.
Prof Tripta Thakur, Vice-Chancellor of Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Technical University, delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives and theme of the seminar. Dr Subi Chaturvedi, Global Senior Vice President at InMobi, shared her views on the role and potential of Artificial Intelligence in the industry. Siddharth Madhav, Chief Technology Officer at Techno Hub, explained the concept and applications of an AI-based thematic classroom.
On the occasion, the Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Mountain Systems, “HIM AI”, was also inaugurated at Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Uttarakhand Technical University. The centre will work on AI-based solutions, research and innovation, sustainable development, and disaster resilience, keeping in view the unique requirements, environmental sensitivity, and disaster-related challenges of the Himalayan regions.
The seminar was attended by Prof Durgesh Pant, Director General of UCOST; Ravinath Raman, Secretary to the Governor; Kaushal Kishore Shukla, Legal Advisor; Reena Joshi, Additional Secretary; and experts, teachers, and students associated with the fields of education, science, technology, industry, and environment.
