Science, Technology, and the Indian Society

Traditionally, keynote talks are delivered by individuals with significant influence on the society. Ministers or secretaries of governments, or presidents of large commercial corporations usually qualify. You also listen to the same people through the media. You want them to tell you what should be done. They quote from the ancient scriptures, which they interpret for you. They quote from management experts like Tom Peters and C.K. Prahalad. They read Business Week and interpret electronics news for you. You have been listening to these people for so long that you have forgotten how anyone else, including yourself, sounds like. In contrast, I happen to be a plain engineer like most of you. I have no more knowledge of things than you have. So, this talk is going to be like a conversation between us. If I manage to touch a chord in your heart, you may even recognize your own voice in my speech.