Leadership excellence across multiple sectors honoured in glittering event

Dehradun: The ET Leadership Excellence Awards were held in Dehradun on Sunday, with around 50 individuals and organisations from diverse sectors being honoured for their contributions. Uttarakhand governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd), who attended the ceremony as chief guest, made a strong pitch for the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across sectors to improve public life and accelerate economic growth.Addressing the gathering, the governor said Uttarakhand must harness AI "in all possible ways" to drive innovation in manufacturing, production and services. "We have had a taste of a trillion-dollar economy and are committed to securing a leading position in the global economy," he said, adding that the 21st century belongs to AI and quantum technologies.The governor, along with actor Preeti Jhangiani, presented awards to winners from sectors such as tourism, education and entrepreneurship. He also underlined the visible role of women in India's growth story. "Women's success is not rhetoric; it is clearly evident on the ground," he said. Highlighting Uttarakhand's ecological advantages, Singh said the state has the potential to spearhead national initiatives in honey, aroma and millet production.During a panel discussion on the state's economic trajectory, Doon University vice-chancellor Surekha Dangwal described human resources as Uttarakhand's core strength, particularly the role played by women in social and political movements. AI expert Shubham Pandey spoke on practical applications of artificial intelligence in daily life, while economist Ravi Kumar said government initiatives must be complemented by a change in local mindset. Agriculture and rural development minister Ganesh Joshi, the guest of honour, outlined state schemes aimed at supporting agri-entrepreneurs.

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