The Hon'ble Vice President of India Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar visited the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and addressed the students, faculty, and staff members of the Institute on Monday, November 6, 2023. On the occasion, he also planted a sapling on the Institute campus.

In his address, Mr. Dhankhar remarked on the emergence of AI as one of the most significant production shifts since the industrial revolution. Emphasising the transformational potential of AI, he said that the world is on the cusp of a technological revolution that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work and interact and that it presents an opportunity as well as a challenge.

During his interaction with students, the Vice President of India called upon them to engage in research and innovation and to use technology for societal causes that benefit the people of India and the global community.

Recognising the importance of women's empowerment and gender equality, the Vice President commended the recent passing of the women's reservation bill in parliament as an epochal development that will have far-reaching societal changes.

 Highlighting the importance of economic nationalism, Shri Dhankhar expressed concern over the outflow of raw materials from India without value addition, which deprives young people of job opportunities and entrepreneurship.

Recognising the alumna of IIT Bombay and their immense contributions in varied disciplines, the Vice President proposed to create a body comprising alumni associations of all IITs to utilise their experience, expertise and exposure in policy-making and execution.

Shri Ramesh Bais, Hon'ble Governor of Maharashtra, was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. Prof. S. Sudarshan, Deputy Director (Academic and Infrastructural Affairs), IIT Bombay; Prof. K.V.K. Rao, Deputy Director (Finance and External Affairs), IIT Bombay, students, faculty members and other dignitaries were present at the event.