On the occasion of National Science Day celebrations and in connection with the courses initiated by IITM Pravarthak at Srimad Andavan Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Padma Shri awardee (2026) Prof. Dr. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, visited the campus on 28 February 2026.
During his visit, he delivered an inspirational address to the Faculty,Staff and students whom he specially described as the pillars of the nation, highlighting the timeless greatness of Bharat and its knowledge traditions.
Prof. Dr. Kamakoti emphasized the importance of using Indian-made products and technologies, specifically encouraging the adoption of indigenous innovations such as Sarvam AI and the Arattai App.
He appreciated the unique role played by the Institution in extending educational services in diverse ways to uplift the rural student community. Stressing the demographic reality that nearly 75% of India’s population resides in villages, he underscored the critical need for rural entrepreneurship, organic farming and sustainable development to build a self-reliant nation.
He shared his vision of transforming India into a “Product Nation” by 2047.
Quoting Swami Vivekananda's saying “If the poor cannot reach education, education should reach the poor” He highlighted the moral responsibility of institutions to take knowledge to the grassroots. He also spoke about the scope of native intelligence inherent in rural communities and the necessity of nurturing the inbuilt potential of every village. Encouraging students not to fear startups or innovation, he expressed his vision of collaborative patents involving farmers and premier institutions like IITs.
He also elaborated on IIT Madras’ “Project Vidya Shakti,” an initiative aimed at educating village students every evening, thereby empowering rural youth and reducing educational disparity.
Concluding his address, Prof. Dr.Kamakoti clarified the distinction between mere wealth and true education, urging students to prioritize knowledge and indigenous intelligence as the foundation for building a strong and prosperous nation.
The visit served as a profound source of motivation, instilling national pride, social responsibility and a spirit of innovation among the students and faculty alike.
Comments
Post a Comment