Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Wednesday urged citizens to adopt a scientific lifestyle grounded in India’s traditional knowledge systems, asserting that indigenous ways of living offer sustainable solutions to modern social and health challenges. He made these remarks while delivering the inaugural address at the 32nd Swadeshi Science Congress and the National Seminar on “Transformative Science and Technology Education for Viksit Bharat” held at the Central University of Kerala (CUK), Periya campus, Kasaragod.
Addressing scientists, academicians, students and researchers from across the country, the Governor stressed that blindly following Western lifestyles had contributed to the rise of lifestyle diseases and deteriorating public health due to altered food habits and daily routines. He emphasised that India’s civilisational heritage embodies a scientific and balanced way of life, nurturing both physical and mental well-being, and that reviving such practices is essential for long-term societal sustainability.
Arlekar highlighted that a truly scientific lifestyle goes beyond mere technological advancement; it includes holistic living, ethical conduct and harmony with nature, and blends India’s time-tested traditions with contemporary scientific approaches to meet emerging challenges. He added that this integration would help propel India toward its development vision, “Viksit Bharat”.
CUK Vice-Chancellor Prof. Siddu P. Algur underlined the importance of universities not only imparting technical knowledge but also fostering social responsibility and national commitment among youth. The congress, jointly organised by the Swadeshi Science Movement-Kerala and CUK, also highlighted the role of Indian Knowledge Systems in enriching modern science and education.
During the event, distinguished scientists and educators were honoured with the Swadeshi Sastra Puraskar and Swadeshi Puraskar for their contributions, and CUK faculty members received awards for multidisciplinary research with significant social impact.
The three-day congress continues to focus on integrating indigenous wisdom with scientific inquiry to foster sustainable development and promote a culturally rooted yet forward-looking scientific ethos.
News as reported.
