FORMER SKUAST VICE CHANCELLOR DR. J.P.
Ludhiana, January 17, 2025 (Amrik singh)
Dr. J.P. Sharma, former Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), visited Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, accompanied by his wife, Dr (Mrs.) Sumati Sharma. They were warmly welcomed by Dr Tejinder Singh Riar, Additional Director of Communication; Dr Nirmal Jaura, Director of Students’ Welfare; and Dr Kuldeep Singh, Professor of Extension Education.
While interacting with university officers at the Communication Centre, Dr Sharma commended PAU for its impeccably clean and green campus and outstanding contributions to agricultural excellence. He raised concerns about the younger generation’s diminishing connection with India’s cultural roots, emphasising how the rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the explosion of information have distanced them from the importance of emotional intelligence and human connections.
Drawing parallels from the book Beyond Boundaries: Expanding Horizons of Youth Well-Being, authored by Gulneet Chahal and Dr Tejinder Singh Riar, Dr Sharma highlighted its relevance in addressing the critical issues faced by today’s youth, such as lack of focus, impulsivity, substance abuse, and strained relationships. He stressed the importance of well-researched resources in guiding youth toward balanced and purposeful lives.
Adding to the discussion, Dr. Riar underscored the need to communicate the healthy and responsible use of AI to support youth well-being. He highlighted the balance required between leveraging technology and preserving human values.
Dr Nirmal Jaura reminisced about the simpler days of youth, recalling how he and his hostel friends would share meals leisurely, strengthening bonds by eating together in the hostel mess or exchanging tiffins with local students. He compared this to the current scenario, where food is often ordered through platforms like Zomato and Swiggy, consumed in isolation and haste, leading to weakened relationships and declining appreciation for home-cooked meals.
Dr (Mrs.) Sumati Sharma spoke about the bedtime rituals of earlier generations, where grandparents read stories that conveyed emotional warmth and life lessons. In contrast, today’s reliance on Google and Netflix for entertainment has stripped children of the human touch, negatively impacting their mental health.
Dr. Kuldeep Singh provided examples of AI’s positive uses while cautioning against its misuse. He remarked that while Indian youth are excelling in developing world-class AI models, they are simultaneously losing touch with their cultural roots, which is vital for balanced growth.
Dr. Sharma and his wife were presented with PAU souvenirs, including the PAU 2025 Calendar, PAU Handbook, and other tokens of appreciation, along with a copy of Beyond Boundaries.
