Technology must complement human effort, not replace it: CM

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28 Apr 2026

Calls for leveraging AI to enhance tourism experience in J&K

Jammu, Apr 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called for harmonising technological advancement with cultural heritage while promoting innovation-driven growth among youth.

The CM inaugurated the 11th National Conference and Exhibition on Emerging and Innovative Trends in Engineering Technology (NCEITEET) at Government College of Engineering and Technology (GCET), Jammu. The two-day event is being organised by GCET Jammu in technical collaboration with IIT Kharagpur and in association with World Consortium of Universities.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the newly constructed School of Architecture (SoA) building at GCET, developed at a cost of ₹19.71 crore. Emphasising the significance of architecture, he urged students to adopt a forward-looking approach while staying rooted in the region's cultural and historical identity.

"While it is important to embrace modernity, it is equally important to remember where we come from. Not every building needs to be made of glass and steel. Our structures must reflect our heritage and preserve our cultural ethos," he said, expressing concern over the declining focus on heritage conservation in both public and private construction across Jammu and Kashmir.

Highlighting the conference theme, Abdullah described it as relevant and thought-provoking, particularly for its focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Reflecting on his experience as Tourism Minister, he noted that leveraging AI could significantly enhance visitor experience, destination management, and service delivery in Jammu and Kashmir. However, he cautioned that technological integration must be balanced with employment generation. "In a region like ours, where unemployment remains a concern, we must ensure that technology complements human effort rather than replacing it," he said.

Addressing infrastructure gaps at GCET, the CM announced that funds shall be provided this year for the construction of an auditorium. He also responded positively to a student's request for an incubation centre, assuring that the government would make every effort to establish such a facility within the institution, with work to be started from this year.

Omar underscored the importance of nurturing a startup ecosystem and enabling youth to become job creators. "We may not be able to provide jobs to everyone, but we can certainly create an environment where our youngsters become entrepreneurs and innovators," he said.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister released the e-proceedings of the conference, comprising 28 shortlisted research papers. He also visited various exhibition stalls showcasing innovative models and projects by students from engineering, technology, and management institutions across Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country.

Minister for Education Sakeena Itoo highlighted the critical role of innovation and research in shaping the future of education. "Innovation today is not a luxury but a necessity. Our institutions must evolve as centres of excellence, research and innovation," she said. MLA Nagrota Devyani Rana, IIT Kharagpur Organising Chairperson Prof Raja Dutta, and GCET Principal/Director Sameru Sharma also addressed the gathering.

The conference brought together academicians, researchers, industry experts, and students from across the country, serving as a platform for the exchange of ideas on emerging trends and technologies shaping the future of engineering.