Former Principal Scientific Adviser to Government of India Padma Shri Prof. K. Vijayraghavan calls for innovation-led growth

Mysore/Mysuru: Padma Shri Prof. K. Vijayraghavan, former Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, has expressed concern over the rapid changes brought about by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biotechnology, warning that automation is fuelling fears of job losses worldwide.

Speaking as chief guest at the Bhramara Award ceremony organised by the Bhramara Trust of Y.T. and Madhuri Thathachari, Mysuru,  at Sri Rajendra Auditorium of JSS College of Pharmacy, Sri Shivarathreeshwaranagar in city last evening, he said AI is reducing human involvement even in biological sciences, while ongoing conflicts are adding to global uncertainty.

“This is a time of challenges and uncertainty for young people, but it is also a period when important ideas can take shape. New solutions often emerge during difficult times,” he said.

Cutting jobs

Prof. Vijayraghavan noted that biotechnology has undergone a major transformation over the past three to four decades and stressed that Universities must foster environments that encourage fresh thinking, critical discussion and refinement of ideas.

He pointed out that microbiology-driven biotechnology is now enabling the production of key components in laboratories using organisms such as yeast, replacing plant-based sources. While medicines like insulin are now produced more efficiently, such advancements are also reducing employment opportunities.

“We must move beyond imitation and embrace innovation, harnessing the creativity of youth,” he said.

Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji of Suttur Mutt, who is also the Chancellor of JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, delivered the benediction and honoured  Prof. K. Kemparaju, Senior Professor, Department of Studies in Biochemistry, University of Mysore (UoM) and Prof. Kesturu S. Girish, Professor, Department of Studies in Biochemistry, Tumkur University, with Bhramara’s Prestigious Award for Research Helping Humanity.

Their work has led to methods that help save lives in cases of cobra bites and prevent limb loss in victims of viper bites.

Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, who presided, lauded the two researchers for developing solutions to long-standing problems caused by venomous snakebites.

He said their work has helped address complications arising from viper bites, which often resulted in permanent disability. “Finding remedies for such persistent issues is commendable,” he added.

Prof. P.N. Rangarajan, ASTRA Professor and J.C. Bose National Fellow, Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science (IISc.), Bengaluru, who was the guest of honour, also spoke.

Correspondent of Sri Ramakrishna Vidyashala Swami Yukteshanandaji; Principal of JSS College of Pharmacy Dr. T.M.  Pramod Kumar; Managing Trustee of Bhramara Trust Madhuri Thathachari; Trustee Prof. R. Srinivasan; Prof. K. Kemparaju’s wife Janaki Kemparaju, Prof.Kesturu S. Girish’s wife Sunitha Girish and others were present.

Bhramara Trust lauded

The Bhramara Trust’s initiative to recognise and promote research in key disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and medicine is commendable. Science is often seen as distant from everyday life, but these two scientists have proved otherwise.”

— Prof. P.N. Rangarajan, ASTRA Professor and J.C. Bose National Fellow, Dept. of Biochemistry, IISc., Bengaluru

The University of Mysore has extended strong support for snakebite research. This achievement is the result of the efforts of many who worked behind the scenes. I thank everyone who has been part of this journey.”

— Prof. K. Kemparaju, Senior Professor, Dept. of Studies in Biochemistry, UoM

I thank the Bhramara Trust of Y.T. and Madhuri Thathachari for recognising our work. Whatever I have achieved is due to my mentor, Prof. K. Kemparaju. His guidance and support made this possible.”

— Prof. Kesturu S. Girish, Dept. of Studies in Biochemistry, Tumkur University