Union Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan presided over the Global Young Scientists Conference and Global Young Academy’s Annual General Meeting at IIT Hyderabad. The event saw participation from young scientists worldwide and dignitaries like Prof. B.S. Murty, Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, and Shri B.V.R. Mohan Reddy.
A Gathering of Visionaries for Global Change
The conference, titled “Confluence of Visionaries: Empowering Science for Global Change”, is being held from June 8 to 14, 2025, marking its first-ever edition in India. IIT Hyderabad, along with the Global Young Academy (GYA), Indian National Young Academy of Science (INYAS), and the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), hosted the event. It gathered 135 international delegates from 60 countries and 65 national delegates, creating a diverse forum for scientific discussion.
In his inaugural address, Shri Pradhan extended a warm welcome to the young scientists and lauded the Global Young Academy for selecting India as the host nation. He also congratulated the 30 new members inducted into GYA, recognizing their contributions to advancing global scientific research.
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Science for One Earth, One Family, One Future
Shri Pradhan emphasized that India’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family) is not merely a slogan but a guiding principle for scientific and humanitarian progress.
“For India, science must be empathetic, ethical, and equitable. Knowledge should be shared, and partnerships—not patents—must shape our collective future,” he stated.
Highlighting India’s global scientific engagements, the Minister cited initiatives such as:
- International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
- Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)
- India Science and Research Fellowship
These initiatives, he noted, reflect India’s vision of “Vishwa Bandhutva” (Global Friendship through Science), fostering international cooperation to address pressing global challenges.
Call for Purpose-Driven Science and Sustainable Development
Shri Pradhan urged scientists, innovators, and policymakers to collaborate in building inclusive and sustainable ecosystems that empower the most vulnerable sections of society.
“This is the most opportune moment for the global scientific community to come together and devise solutions that advance human-centric development. The vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) can only be realized through empathy-driven innovation,” he remarked.
He expressed confidence that the conference would serve as a catalyst for knowledge-sharing and actionable strategies to tackle global issues such as climate change, health disparities, and technological inequities.
Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam: A Green Tribute to Mother Earth
As part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, Shri Pradhan, along with other dignitaries, planted saplings on the IIT Hyderabad campus, symbolizing a commitment to environmental sustainability.
“Planting a tree in honor of one’s mother is a small act with a profound message—it signifies our duty to protect and nurture nature for future generations,” he said.
He called upon students and academic institutions across India to lead the green movement, advocating for eco-conscious policies and sustainable practices in daily life.
Thematic Sessions: Shaping the Future of Science and Society
The week-long conference features high-level discussions and thematic sessions on critical areas, including:
- Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG): Sustainable policies for climate resilience.
- Health and Nutrition for Global Wellness: Innovations in healthcare and food security.
- Industry 5.0: Enhancing human-machine collaboration for societal benefit.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Navigating the global landscape of science-driven startups.
Conclusion: A Unified Call to Action
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan’s address underscored the transformative power of science when guided by empathy and shared purpose. As the world faces unprecedented challenges—from climate crises to technological disruptions—the Minister’s message resonated strongly: “Science must serve humanity, and innovation must bridge divides rather than deepen them.”
With India at the forefront of global scientific diplomacy, this conference marks a pivotal step toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and collaborative future—one where young scientists lead the charge in shaping a better world.
