Tech can play big role in agri, education, health, PM tells Gates
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Modi on Friday identified agriculture, education and health as three sectors where he is most excited about the use of technology, and highlighted related efforts of his government in these fields.
In an interaction with philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on a host of issues, including technology, its use in different sectors and climate change, Modi said he used to hear of digital divide in the world and had decided that he will not allow this to happen in India.
He also said he wants to allocate funds to scientists for local research in cervical cancer to develop vaccines at a minimal cost and that his new government will work to ensure vaccination, especially for all girls, against the serious disease.
The prime minister has frequently expressed confidence that the ruling BJP will get a big majority in the general elections and he will return to power for a third straight term.
There is a requirement for digital public infrastructure, the prime minister said, with Gates praising India’s adoption of technology and saying India is leading the way.
Modi added that he is taking technology to villages and cited linking up of over two lakh health centres to the best of hospitals with technology to ensure quality treatment of people.
Technology can help make agriculture modern and scientific, and is being used to plug the shortcomings of teachers in education as well, Modi said.
He said digital technology will have a big role in the fourth industrial revolution and he is confident that India will do well.