Man of sovereignty

Let’s Build A Technology Sovereign Nation Says Vinit Goenka

Kashvi Bajpai, AIS Noida, XII

A politician, technocrat, social activist, and an author, Vinit Goenka has been working towards building India’s data sovereignty and digital security. As a chief guest at YP grand finale 2023-24, Vinit Goenka shares about some of his notable transformative initiatives and much more in an exclusive interview with GT reporter.

The early years
As a student, I quickly grasped the significant impact politics had on socio-economic issues. This motivated me to participate in student politics during my college years. However, as my professional career progressed, I had to distance myself from political activities. In 2006, I resigned and fully immersed myself in the techno-political and policy-making space. My focus has since been on leveraging technology to improve lives while contributing to making Bharat a ‘Vishwa Guru’ and a technology-sovereign nation.

Balancing multiple roles
If I were to define myself, I would call myself a changemaker. I believe that those who innovate or embrace new technologies will lead, while others will be left behind. India is considered a hub for generating data, but I want it to become a powerhouse of data storage, analytics, processing, and innovation. By promoting data sovereignty and ensuring digital security, India can transform into a leader in data-driven innovation, fostering homegrown technologies and reducing reliance on foreign powers.

Social activism
My inspiration for social activism comes from Swami Vivekananda and Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, founder of RSS. Dr Hedgewar’s vision of a self-reliant and united nation deeply resonated with me, particularly his emphasis on the importance of selfless service, discipline, and societal reform. My most cherished initiatives is the Master Mentors Geo-Enabling Indian Scholars (MMGEIS) programme, designed to raise geospatial awareness among students. It’s a perfect example to bring cutting-edge knowledge and empower the youth. Activism requires inner strength, and perseverance, but it’s enriching when you make lives of many fellow Indians better.

The right way of life
Technology should be used for growth, and not to dominate our lives. I advocate spiritual practices like meditation, real time interaction, and developing hobbies to disengage from digital tools. The youth are the driving force behind a nation’s progress. So, I urge the youth to embrace Swadeshi and support Indian products and services. Encouraging domestic innovation, investing in local manufacturing, and fostering a culture of self-reliance is crucial in ensuring that India maintains its economic and technological sovereignty in the digital age.

Catch them young
To empower our youth and enhance their global competence, we need to bring about certain changes in the education system. The focus should be on skill development, which prioritises practical skills over theoretical learning. Educators should encourage an interdisciplinary learning and foster connections between different fields through project-based and collaborative learning. Global exposure through international partnerships and cultural experiences will help immensely.

Message for
Amitians
Prioritise technological innovation, so that you can file as many patents as possible. Always aim to make lives better, not only for Indians but the entire world.

Global opportunities for students

Japanese Job Fair To Strengthen Indo-Japan Relations

ATPC | AUUP

On February 8, 2025, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, proudly hosted the Japanese Job Fair, underscoring its ongoing commitment to strengthening Indo-Japanese collaboration in education, innovation, and employment. This flagship event reflects India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Japan’s global talent integration strategy, marking a milestone in the university’s strategic plan for 2025.
The traditional tilak and havan promoted cultural unity, followed by a symbolic sapling distribution led by Prof (Dr) Balvinder Shukla, vice chancellor, emphasising sustainability and shared growth.
Organised by the Amity Technical Placement Centre, the fair facilitated interaction between students and leading Japanese companies, opening doors to employment in sectors such as IT, engineering, and management. The initiative aims to enhance global employability and prepare students for multicultural work environments.
Amity’s robust Japanese engagement includes over 1,000 students enrolled in Japanese language programs, strong academic partnerships with premier institutions in Tokyo and Kyoto, and the establishment of a Japan Desk in 2023 via an MoU with Sekisho Corporation. The Japan Desk has  supported multiple placements through on-the-spot interviews during this fair.
Prof (Dr) Balvinder Shukla, vice chancellor, along with Dr Anjani Kumar Bhatnagar, head, ATPC and senior officials from Amity University management, interacted with the delegates. Anupam Singh, assistant general manager, served as the convenor and coordinated with visiting Japanese firms.
Amity’s growing partnerships with Japanese prefectures and Ibaraki-based companies are set to advance further through planned faculty exchanges, dual-degree programmes, and joint research initiatives—aligned with the vision of Dr Atul Chauhan, Chancellor, Amity University and President, RBEF, to develop globally competent, morally grounded leaders who will contribute to India’s innovation-driven economy.
The Japanese Job Fair is a landmark in Amity’s journey towards global academic and industry integration, preparing graduates to serve as cultural ambassadors and contribute meaningfully to India-Japan economic cooperation.