Date:17/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/07/17/stories/2006071716360500.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

IT `only an enabling technology'

Staff Reporter

Book on role of technology released

CHENNAI: "Information Technology is only an enabling science," said A. Sivakumar at the launch of his book in the city on Friday evening. "More attention needs to be paid to manufacturing and design," the author stressed.

`In Search of Technology' is his new book on the role of technology in world affairs and the state of Indian industry seen from the vantage point of his experiences in manufacturing and research after graduating with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from IIT Madras in 1968.

Speakers at the event, including the T.N. Seshan, former Chief Election Commissioner of India and M.V. Murugappa of the AMM Murugappa Chettiyar Research Centre, pointed out that the use of technology was a double-edged weapon. Concern over the use of sophisticated technology by terrorists was expressed. "The study of humanity must be conducted alongside the study of science and technology," said Mr. Murugappa.

Through his book, Mr. Sivakumar hopes to trigger new ideas as he believes technology to be created by the interpolation of ideas from several disciplines. He also wants to draw attention to important innovations that did not find attention in the media.

The book was released by Mr. Seshan. N.Murali, Managing Director of The Hindu, received the first copy.