Satish Sharma calls for ethical, people-centric use of AI
Ganderbal: The International Conference on Applied Artificial Intelligence (2AI-2026), organized by the Department of Information Technology, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration University of South Dakota, AI Research Lab, USA, partnered by Springer and CCIS, commenced with enthusiasm and academic fervour at the Tulmulla Campus on Thursday.
The inaugural session of the conference featured prominent figures, including Satish Sharma, the Chief Guest and Minister for Science & Technology in Jammu and Kashmir, and Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, who presided over the event. The gathering included esteemed guests such as Dr. Chandrasekhar Buddha, Chief Coordinating Officer of AICTE, and Prof. Battu Satyanarayana, Vice Chancellor of Central University of Karnataka, among others. In his address, Sharma emphasized the necessity of aligning technological advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence, with human values and societal well-being, urging young researchers to develop AI solutions that address real-world challenges. He recognized the intellectual potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth and assured government support for innovation and skill development. Prof. A. Ravinder Nath highlighted the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on society and stressed the role of higher education institutions in fostering research and innovation to prepare students for a dynamic global economy. Prof. Battu Satyanarayana, addressing the audience online, noted the essential role of technology as a complement to human intelligence and called for universities to promote AI innovations for societal benefit. Dr. Chandrasekhar Buddha discussed the dual nature of AI, presenting both opportunities and challenges, and underscored the importance of human creativity in guiding technological progress. Prof. Sandhya Tiwari outlined the international initiatives undertaken by the Office of International Affairs, showcasing the university’s efforts to expand its global academic presence. Prof. R. S. Hegadi provided an overview of the conference, noting the rigorous peer-review process that resulted in the acceptance of 118 out of 447 research paper submissions. Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir emphasized the importance of embracing emerging technologies like AI, advocating for proactive engagement with the opportunities they present. The dignitaries also released the proceedings from the previous conference and a souvenir for the current event. Dr. Yash Paul, the organizing chair, concluded the session by highlighting the conference as a vital platform for knowledge exchange in the field of Artificial Intelligence, with Asst Prof. Dr. Gulafroz managing the program proceedings.
