Languages should be tools of progress, not instruments of discrimination: MP Basavaraj Bommai

“No need to fear AI, it can be controlled”

Bengaluru Expres
Bengaluru, June 1:

“Our country is rich in linguistic diversity, and languages must serve as instruments of progress, not tools for discrimination,” said former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the VK Education Fair organized by Vijaya Karnataka newspaper at the Jnana Jyothi Auditorium of Bangalore City University here on Saturday.

Bommai said Kannada and knowledge are deeply intertwined. Even complex subjects can be easily understood when explained in Kannada. It gives them the opportunity to integrate language into their lives. Many parents believe that knowledge is accessible only in English. But in Germany, education is provided in German; in China, it’s in Chinese. These countries adopted scientific study in their own languages after World War II.

He said their knowledge tradition dates back even further — from Aryabhata onwards, Indian knowledge has continued to grow. They must transform this knowledge into science, then into technology, and from technology into software. The many languages of India reflect its vast diversity, and they should foster development, not discrimination.

Don’t be scared of AI
The MP said the true purpose of life is to understand the meaning of one’s birth and existence. If they want to be successful, start by asking themselves why, what, where, and how. That curiosity is the first step toward success. Once a student, always a student — learning is lifelong. In college, they study till exams, but in life, tests come first and learning follows. One must cultivate critical thinking and the habit of questioning.” We don’t need to fear Artificial Intelligence (AI). It was created by humans and can be controlled by humans. What we need is the knowledge to control and utilize it”.

Bommai said so far, only 6 per cent of knowledge has been used by the general population and around 18 per cent by scientists. That means nearly 80% of their knowledge remains untapped. The youth must use their intelligence to find solutions to society’s problems. ” Never underestimate your capabilities — Indians have immense potential and a scientific mindset. Instead of sending our children to distant IITs, the government has selected seven engineering colleges to provide IIT-model education locally. Universities should function independently. During my tenure as CM, we started Bangalore City University, and I am happy that it is functioning well,” he said.

Modi is the first PM of modern India

The former CM said they introduced the National Education Policy (NEP). But now in Karnataka, there is neither NEP nor any alternative. For democracy to function effectively, education, employment, and empowerment are essential. To become a developed nation, they must grow not just economically, but socially too. Narendra Modi is the first Prime Minister of New India. Through his schemes, 25 crore people have risen above the poverty line.
Earlier, they considered India’ spopulation a burden — but Modi has transformed it into an asset. ” You are lucky to be born in India, and even more fortunate to be born in Karnataka and to receive education in reputed colleges in Bengaluru”.

Commendable

He said Vijaya Karnataka newspaper has earned a place in the hearts of Kannada readers. Before its arrival, new newspapers struggled for space in Karnataka. VK created its own reader base and brought out special editions for children, women, and science. It is contributing significantly to the growth of the Kannada language.
” When I was Home Minister, I launched a campaign against drugs — VK played a leading role in it. Similarly, VK’s ‘Money’ edition educates readers about commerce, business education, and the national economy. The Vijaya Karnataka Shikshana Habba (Education Fair) is a noteworthy initiative. When we were students, opportunities were limited. Now, new courses and universities are emerging, and VK is providing valuable information about them. Make use of this knowledge and give back to society”

Bommai said VK has created the Saraswati Vahana (vehicle of knowledge). It has shown you the path forward in life. The Saraswati Vahana is like a divine swan — pure and capable of soaring to great heights. The swan, though the heaviest bird, can fly to the highest altitudes. VK’s initiative is like that swan, guiding you toward the heights of Manasa Sarovara,” he said.

Film actor Diganth, Prof. K.R. Jalaja (In-charge Vice-Chancellor of Bangalore City University), and Vijaya Karnataka editor, Sudarshan Channangihalli.

Also, meritorious students from government schools and colleges who scored high marks in SSLC and PUC were felicitated at the event.

About Author