Innovation no longer luxury but necessity: Addl CS
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 18 2025: Innovation is no longer a luxury but a necessity to address the pressing challenges of contemporary world, including climate change, digital divide and inclusive development, said additional chief secretary (finance) Vivek Kumar Dewangan at the inauguration of a three-day Tnnotech Fest' at Manipur Science Centre, Takyelpat, on Friday.

The event is organised by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to promote innovation among youth and connect ideas to practical applications.

Speaking as chief guest, Dewangan described Innotech Fest as an energetic platform for new and creative ideas rooted in modern technology.

Innovation no longer luxury but necessity: Addl CS

He said that the festival provides young people with the opportunity to present innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Noting the rapid changes brought about by emerging technologies, Dewangan said that events like Innotech Fest help bridge the gap between knowledge, ideas and their application.

He urged participants, including students, researchers, start-ups and institutions, to collaborate meaningfully and develop impactful innovations.

Appreciating DST for taking up the initiative, he said that young innovators are the future of the nation and expressed hope that the event would inspire greater discovery and invention.

Dewangan also highlighted that India's per capita income and power consumption remain around one-third of global averages.

In comparison, developed nations have 10 to 12 times higher consumption than the global averages.

He said that India is working toward becoming a developed nation by 2047, and the skills and creativity of its youth will be the key drivers of progress.

Turning to Manipur, he said that the state has a long road ahead to match the pace of development seen in other parts of the country.

The economy remains largely agrarian, but there is immense potential in fields like horticulture, floriculture, veterinary and animal husbandry, and fisheries.

He urged people to tap into Manipur's rich natural resources, including its variety of orchid species, and convert them into economic opportunities.

He acknowledged the challenges in logistics and marketing but called for collective brainstorming to overcome these barriers.

Dewangan also stressed the potential of tourism sector, stating that improvement in infrastructure and essential services is needed.

Homestay tourism is a promising avenue, he said, while encouraging innovators to explore the growing IT sector.

DST director Ch Sachi said that the objective of the event is to motivate students through activities such as innovation idea challenges, exhibitions, robot design and painting competitions which are designed to equip students to thrive in today's fast-changing world.

He informed that 38 teams from within and outside the state participated in the preliminary round of the Innovation Idea Challenge held on July 14 with the selected ideas being showcased during the three-day event.

A total of 30 stalls are exhibiting projects from the fields of agriculture, technology and robotics.

Selected student teams will receive mentorship from various organisations to help refine and advance their ideas.

The inaugural function was presided over by science and technology secretary Kengoo Zuringla, with IT secretary Th Kirankumar and NIELIT, Akampat executive director Prof (Dr) Yumnam Jayanta attending as guests of honour.