Renowned Scientist Padma Shri Prof. Ashutosh Sharma Delivers University Extension Lecture on “Science and Scientists in the New Millennium”
Nai Dilli : The Department of Chemical Engineering, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), organized a thought-provoking University Extension Lecture , at the J.N. Medical College Auditorium, where Padma Shri Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, FNA, FTWAS, Institute Chair Professor at IIT Kanpur and President of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), delivered a captivating address on the theme: “Science and Scientists in the New Millennium: A Brave New World.”
The distinguished speaker was welcomed by the AMU fraternity and received with admiration by students, researchers, and faculty members across disciplines. In his lecture, Prof. Sharma reflected on the transformative role of science in today’s fast-evolving global landscape. With characteristic clarity and insight, he outlined the contemporary challenges faced by scientists, ranging from sustainable development, convergence of technologies, rise of intelligent machines, and the management of knowledge in the age of data.
Prof. Sharma emphasized the significance of lateral thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary approaches in modern research. He championed the importance of connecting niche research domains to broader societal concerns, blending fun, quality, and passion into scientific exploration.
He further explored the contrasts between invention and innovation, tool-centric versus problem-centric science, and incremental versus path-breaking research. The lecture also touched upon concepts like Scientific Social Responsibility, reward structures in academia, and the balance between Jugaad, Dhandha, and Panga—a playful yet profound commentary on the Indian research ecosystem.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, Prof. Ahmad Tariq Jameel, Organizing Secretary of the event, introduced the speaker with reflections on his academic journey as Prof. Sharma’s first PhD student at IIT Kanpur in the early 1990s and expressed his gratitude for the mentorship he received.
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The event also featured a brief interactive Q&A session, during which students and scholars engaged with the speaker, exchanging ideas and posing insightful questions. The session concluded with Presidential Remarks by Prof. Nesar Ahmad, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, who highlighted the foundational role of observation, experimentation, and evidence in science. He highlighted how the legacy of early scientific inquiry continues to shape revolutionary domains such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
The event was conducted jointly by Ms. Fatima Wajih and Ms. Fatima Khan, B.Tech students from the Department of Chemical Engineering. Vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Mohd Danish, Chairman, Department of Chemical Engineering, who appreciated the enriching presence of Prof. Sharma and acknowledged the efforts organizing team for ensuring the programme’s success.
Prof. Ashutosh Sharma appreciated the campus’s warm hospitality and vibrant academic environment. He expressed delight in reconnecting with AMU and visited key landmarks including the Sir Syed Academy, Maulana Azad Library, Musa Dakri Museum, Strachey Hall, University Mosque, and JNMC Complex.
The AMU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Naima Khatoon, during the post-event lunch visited the New Guest House, where she interacted with Prof. Sharma and faculty members, marking a befitting conclusion to a memorable day.
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Aligarh Muslim University
