India is poised to derive social and economic benefits from the convergence of various disruptive technologies for sustainable production and consumption, according to V.K. Saraswat, member, NITI-Aayog, and noted defence technologist.
Delivering the first A.P.J. Abdul Kalam lecture instituted by the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) near here on Wednesday, Dr. Saraswat said the latest disruptions in information and communication technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, genomics, microelectronics, remote sensing, Geographic Information System and advanced materials could provide an impetus to the transformation for sustainability.
“They can speed up the global missions to cut carbon emissions by 80% by the year 2050, increase food production by 70%, achieve sustainable urban living, adapt to the population transition, strengthen global governance and protect, restore and sustain the environment,” he said.
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Global outlook
He highlighted the need for engineers to adopt an interdisciplinary approach and global outlook to achieve these objectives. “Biology and engineering can address various challenges faced by mankind and create significant societal impact by helping global efforts aimed at carbon sequestration, providing clean water, improvement of urban infrastructure and health-care facilities, securing cyberspace and development of medicines.”
Dr. Saraswat said the latest trends in harnessing offshore wind energy, affordable solar photovoltaics, advanced biofuels, clean coal technology, carbon sequestration, electric vehicles, space solar power, methanol-powered fuel cells and concentrated solar power called for integration of knowledge across multiple branches of science and engineering and society.
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India, he said, had made significant progress in the development of advanced heavy water reactors using thorium fuel for sustainable nuclear energy. Indian scientists were also working on the development of advanced methanol-powered fuel cells for on board generation of hydrogen, he added.
Dr. Saraswat said the convergence of various disruptive technologies would pave the way for the economic growth of the country, provide access to healthcare for millions, improve the lot of farmers, ensure financial inclusion, save energy and create employment in various sectors.
IIST Chancellor B.N. Suresh presided over the function. Director, VSSC, S. Somanath and Director, IIST, V.K. Dadhwal were also present.