Technology should reduce suffering and strengthen humanity: IIT Kharagpur Director Suman Chakraborty

Jamshedpur, May 14: CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML) celebrated National Technology Day with enthusiasm, highlighting the nation’s scientific and technological achievements. Director of IIT Kharagpur, Suman Chakraborty, attended the programme as the chief guest.

CSIR-NML Director Dr. Sandip Ghosh Chowdhury underlined the importance of research and innovation in shaping the future. He also shared details about several technologies developed by CSIR-NML over the past year that are now ready for commercialisation.

Dr. K.K. Sahu, Chief Scientist and coordinator of the programme, introduced the chief guest and highlighted his achievements in the field of research and technology.

Delivering a lecture on “Responsible Innovation for Inclusive Growth – from Deep Science to Deep Societal Impact,” Prof. Chakraborty stressed that technological development should focus not only on markets and profits but also on humanity, equity, and sustainability.

He said technology must address local needs and aspirations. Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, “Science is universal, but technology should be local.”

Prof. Chakraborty further stated that India’s digital capabilities, socio-economic diversity, rural challenges, healthcare needs, and demographic strength should be effectively used for technology development.

“True technological progress is achieved when technology reduces suffering, expands opportunity, enhances equity, protects the planet, and strengthens humanity,” he said.

On the occasion, Prof. Chakraborty also released the CSIR-NML Annual Report 2025-26.

Dr. S K Pal, Head, Research Planning and Business Development Division delivered the vote of thanks.

The event also included a poster presentation by the PhD scholars of the institute and a visit by representatives from MSME to the various facilities of the institute. Students and a faculty from Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur and IEM, Kolkata joined the event. A lab visit was also arranged for the students. The event was organized by AcSIR Science Club at CSIR-NML.