India’s 75th Independence day – AICTE Chairman |Industrial Economist

On 15 August 2021, India celebrated its 75th Independence Day. On this occasion, IE presents the perceptions of a few distinguished personalities on India@100. These are top think-tanks in the fields of education, technology, academia, nuclear energy…

The questions:

1. Five major landmarks in the march towards the 75th anniversary of independence
2. Your vision on India at its centenary, ie. 25 years hence.
3. Three areas to focus through the next 25 years
4. Views on the current federal structure. Is it stable and strong?
5. Key electoral reforms you consider necessary
6. How to catch up with the missed opportunities through science and technology?

Prof Anil Sahasrabudhe,
Chairman,  AICTE

MAJOR LANDMARKS

1. Self-reliance in space science, satellite launches….
2. Self- reliance in nuclear power
3. Solar energy -based electricity
4. Construction capability-bridges, dams, high rise
5. Capability as software power house

India@100

India shall be fully self-reliant in almost all technologies; have a Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education of more than 50 per cent; have jobs for all through small and big industries, and start-ups; homes for every family with electricity and internet connections. India shall have at least 10 universities in the world’s top 100 rankings.

Focus through the next 25 years

Homes for all;  Electricity and internet connectivity for all; jobs for all

Federal Structure

India is more than a continent in terms of languages, climate, culture, religions, dresses, food items, crops, flora and fauna. At every 200-300 km distance we find a difference. Respecting all this variety is possible only through a federal structure of governance. All democratic systems need to be strengthened with rights, duties and responsibilities taken together.

Key electoral reforms

Transparent funding of recognised political parties and weeding out multitudes of small parties who do not get even a 5 per cent vote share. Decriminalisation of politics by banning political activities for life for people who are convicted of crimes. Accountability in terms of implementing the electoral promises.

India’s future in leveraging S&T

Science and Technology (S&T) is a powerful tool for the development of a nation. Hence immense support should be provided for research in S&T, providing taking head on challenges of water, food, environment, housing, healthcare, energy, transportation, security (physical and cyber)…