Harivansh

Senior Journalist, 

Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha

In today's world, educational institutions are shaping the future by connecting with society, environment, and innovation. Scientific research and study institutions are shaping the future. Jharkhand has many renowned institutions like St. Xavier's College, XLRI, IIM, National University of Study and Research in Law, Birsa Agricultural University, NIT Jamshedpur, BIT Sindri, BIT Mesra, and NIFT. 

Remember, Stanford University's environment gave birth to Silicon Valley, which is now reshaping the world.

Influencing society, culture, and economy, a competition is underway among countries to attract the world's best institutions to their respective states.

After the 1950s, Bengaluru and Pune established themselves as hubs for top educational institutions. This fueled the growth of the software industry and economic power. Ranchi didn't follow suit. Even after Jharkhand's formation, it took decades to allocate land for institutions like IIM or law colleges. Other states are inviting top institutions by allocating land. While we keep requesting, will Jharkhand's mindset change?

In recent decades, innovations from various global education centers have not only fostered startups but also opened new doors and opportunities for humanity.

Taiwan is a small country, perhaps the size of Kerala or Haryana. Do you know how it controls the world? Through advanced chips in AI technology.

The world needs more than 62% of these chips, and Taiwan alone produces most of them. Despite China's threats, Taiwan's talent, dedication, and values have made it an inspiration to the world. One individual played a crucial role in chip manufacturing, leading TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) to become a global leader. (These are the author's personal views)

Every MLA's report card should be based on the state's future challenges.

Other states are inviting organisations, while we hit the dust.

It is fascinating to know that one company has significantly elevated Taiwan's global standing. 

That person behind it is Morris Chang. Born in 1931, he studied at Harvard and MIT, earning degrees in mechanical engineering. After working for many years at Texas Instruments in the US, he rose to a senior position. In 1987, at the request of the Taiwanese government, he returned to Taiwan with government funding and Taiwanese talent to establish TSMC.

Today, this company manufactures nearly 62% of the world's semiconductors. All major modern industries and companies compete to obtain chips from here. In today's world, almost all electronic gadgets or services inevitably use semiconductor chips. Chips have always been a revolutionary technology. Initially, few people were aware of its usefulness.

One may note that, a very small country's political leadership figures out the future of technology. To realize that vision then, the country's Premier (equivalent to the Prime Minister in the Taiwanese government) invites Morris Chang, an engineer in America, to return to the country.

Then, with the support of the Taiwanese government, Chang leads the establishment of the TSMC. This company's achievements have astounded the world. Today, global superpowers, including the United States, are lining up to purchase chips from TSMC. Despite facing decades of threats from China, Taiwan has risen to become a world leader through talent, self-respect, and innovation.

This is a testament to the power of political vision and the blueprints that politicians create for society. Jharkhand's voters should evaluate their future in these elections based on these critical elements of modern development and leadership. As the saying goes, ‘He who controls the past, controls the future’.

What has been the glorious legacy of Jharkhand's leadership? This should be a topic of discussion during these elections.

Born in Motihari, undivided Bihar, George Orwell became one of the world's greatest writers. He said, "The one who controls history controls the future." This means that by drawing inspiration from our traditions and heritage, how can this country or Jharkhand write its future? Even if we do not go too far back in history, who are the prominent figures from Jharkhand until recently?

Kartik Oraon, who received higher education in engineering abroad and served as a central minister for a long time, is an inspiring figure. Former Union Minister Kadia Munda is another such personality. The list includes names like N.E. Horo, Lalit Oraon, and Dr. Ramdayal Munda. Even after holding high positions, these individuals remained simple, part of the common people. They were symbols of integrity, morality, and transparency in their lives.

A Visionary Leader of Jharkhand, born in Potka, undivided Bihar, Sanatan Sardar served as an MLA for three terms (1977 to 1990). He also held ministerial positions. After his political career, he turned to farming and even worked the fields himself.

Much later, a journalist interviewed him about current politics and politicians. He said, "In today's political climate, I might be considered naive, but I am honest." It is rare for a public representative to admit, "Yes, I might be naive, but I am honest." This moral courage and honesty are part of Jharkhand's heritage.

He lived a simple life, working on his farm and remaining free from corruption. He was spotless and unblemished. By calling himself naive, he meant that he did not amass wealth like some modern politicians.

This tradition of honest politics has been a strength of Jharkhand's politics. It is the responsibility of the people of Jharkhand to weigh every politician since 2000 against this standard of old-school politics. This election provides an opportunity to do so. Otherwise, as the old saying goes, ‘As is the king, so are the people’.

Courtesy: Dainik Bhaskar

Translated & Edited by : Smita DeyTarafder