Blend Science with Tradition to Empower Tribal India: Vice President

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday emphasized the need to harmonize modern scientific advancements with traditional knowledge systems to uplift tribal communities across India. Speaking at a national conference in New Delhi, he underlined that sustainable development must go hand in hand with the preservation of language, faith, and cultural heritage.

Promoting Science-Driven Inclusive Development

Conference Focuses on Tribal Transformation

The Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the conference titled “Transformation of Tribal Lives through Science and Technological Interventions – Preserving Language, Faith and Culture” at Bharat Mandapam. The event was jointly organised by the Department of Science and Technology, the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach, and ITITI Doon Sanskriti School.

The conference served as a platform to explore how scientific innovation can complement indigenous practices, enabling holistic development while safeguarding tribal identity.

Science Meets Tradition

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President stressed that when modern science aligns with language, faith, and culture, it becomes a transformative force. He highlighted that such integration not only protects traditional wisdom but also empowers communities to adapt to modern challenges.

Recognising the Role of Tribal Communities

Custodians of Heritage and Biodiversity

Radhakrishnan pointed out that India is home to nearly 1.4 lakh tribal villages, representing about nine per cent of the population. He described tribal communities as vital custodians of the nation’s biodiversity and cultural legacy, having preserved age-old traditions and ecological balance for centuries.

Skills for Sustainable Economies

He also praised the artistic and creative strengths of tribal populations, particularly their expertise in design, textiles, and colour combinations. These skills, he noted, hold immense potential in building sustainable and creative economies, especially in sectors like handicrafts and eco-friendly products.

Vision for ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’

Development and Heritage Go Together

Reiterating the national vision of “Viksit Bharat @ 2047”, the Vice President highlighted the guiding principle of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”. He stressed that economic growth and cultural preservation are not opposing forces but complementary aspects of nation-building.

Green Growth Potential

Tribal regions, rich in natural resources and traditional ecological knowledge, can play a pivotal role in advancing green economic growth. Leveraging these strengths responsibly could contribute significantly to India’s sustainability goals.

Policy Support and Historical Context

Strengthening Tribal Welfare

Reflecting on his tenure as a Member of Parliament, Radhakrishnan recalled supporting the formation of states such as Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand, which have played a key role in addressing tribal development needs more effectively.

Recognising Past Leadership

He paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for establishing the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, calling it a landmark step rooted in justice and dignity.

The Vice President also acknowledged the contributions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in bringing tribal freedom fighters into the national spotlight, thereby strengthening their recognition in India’s historical narrative.

Key Government Initiatives for Tribal Development

Infrastructure and Connectivity Boost

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Radhakrishnan spoke about the PM-JANMAN programme, under which more than 2,400 roads spanning nearly 7,300 km and over 160 bridges have been sanctioned to improve connectivity in tribal areas.

Holistic Development Programmes

He also referred to the Dharti Abha – Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, aimed at improving living standards across over 63,000 tribal villages. The initiative focuses on providing better access to essential services such as water, housing, education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities.

Focus on Education and Regional Development

Role of Educational Institutions

Congratulating ITITI Doon Sanskriti School on its silver jubilee, the Vice President noted its significant contribution in providing free quality education to tribal children. The institution has benefited over 2,000 students from regions including Uttarakhand, the North East, and Ladakh.

North East Development Gains Momentum

He also highlighted the rapid progress in infrastructure and connectivity in India’s North Eastern region, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive and balanced regional development.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was attended by several prominent leaders, including Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Chowna Mein, and Abhay Karandikar, among others.

Conclusion

The Vice President’s address underscores a forward-looking approach to tribal development—one that integrates modern science with traditional wisdom. As India progresses toward its vision of “Viksit Bharat @ 2047”, ensuring that tribal communities are empowered while preserving their rich cultural identity will be critical. By combining innovation with heritage, India can create a development model that is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in its civilisational values.