PM Modi emphasises on technology, innovation in Singapore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday stressed on the importance of technology and innovation in every sphere of life as he visited Singapore's prestigious Nanyang Technological University and interacted with students there.

Delivering a keynote speech here, Prime Minister Modi underscored that technology empowers people and added, "India has progressed through the ages due to innovation, ethics and humanitarian values."

"A technology-driven society breaks social barriers. Technology has to be affordable and user-friendly. We should not see every disruption as destruction. People were apprehensive about computers but see how computers changed human history. Technology is aiding human creativity. Various social media platforms have given voice to millions," he said.

When a student asked the Prime Minister on the use of space technology for human progress, he answered, "Greater use of space technology augurs well for human progress. Among the many advantages of space, technology is that improves accuracy in weather predictions. Fishermen can gain tremendously thanks to the application of space technology."

He further underlined that space technology helps in properly mapping the development infrastructure.

The Prime Minister also said, "World is clear that the 21st century is Asia's century. It is essential to believe in ourselves and know that this is our turn. We must rise to the occasion and take that leadership. We must treat every challenge as an opportunity."

"In human history, India and China have dominated global trade for centuries. At the same time, there was no conflict. We must think of furthering connectivity without any conflict," he added.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Modi planted a 'Neem Tree' at Nanyang Technical University campus in Singapore.

Prime Minister Modi landed in Singapore on Thursday, where he received a rousing welcome from the crowd. Singapore is the last leg of Prime Minister Modi's visit to three South-East Asian nations- Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

Before Singapore, Prime Minister visited Indonesia and Malaysia in a bid to enhance India's relations and engagements with the three countries, who are members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).