Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Shri Harivansh delivered the prestigious Sir Syed Ahmad Memorial Lecture at Aligarh Muslim University on June 17, 2026, addressing the theme "Role of Technology in Social Change: Indian Perspective." The event was organized by the Sir Syed Academy as part of its annual memorial lecture series dedicated to the legacy of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, featuring a distinguished gathering of academicians, students, researchers, and public intellectuals.
Harivansh drew parallels with Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's reformist vision, emphasizing that adoption of modern knowledge and scientific temper remains essential for national progress. He highlighted technology's transformative role in shaping societies globally through various historical examples from different countries. The Deputy Chairman stressed that while technology serves as a powerful instrument of social change, its benefits must reach all sections of society, calling for bridging the digital divide and ensuring technological innovation remains rooted in India's social and cultural realities.
Specifically addressing contemporary Indian society, Harivansh highlighted how the use of new technologies after 2014 has accelerated social inclusion, expanded access to education and healthcare, strengthened democratic participation, and created new opportunities for economic empowerment. He underscored the present government's efforts through various schemes and programs for harnessing emerging technologies including artificial intelligence and digital platforms in a manner that promotes equity, transparency, accountability, and human welfare, effectively democratizing technology itself.
The AMU authorities and Sir Syed Academy welcomed the Chief Guest and highlighted the continuing relevance of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's vision of combining modern education with social reform. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the university community and invited guests, maintaining the lecture series' status as one of AMU's most significant intellectual forums for fostering dialogue on issues of national importance and social transformation.