THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Dhanbad, March 21: In a landmark moment for IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi called for the adoption of a “Compassion Quotient (CQ)” while delivering the institute’s first-ever centenary lecture. The event also marked the historic launch of the Abanish Chandra & Binapani Sinha Memorial Lecture Series, underscoring the institute’s commitment to blending technology with human values.
This was Satyarthi’s first visit to the IIT (ISM) campus, making the occasion particularly significant during the institute’s centenary celebrations.
Historic First Centenary Lecture at IIT ISM
The lecture, held at the Penman Auditorium, was presided over by Director Prof. Sukumar Mishra, with Prof. Rajni Singh, Dean (Corporate Communications), organising and anchoring the programme.
The lecture series has been instituted through a generous endowment by distinguished alumnus Mihir Sinha (1966 batch, Petroleum Engineering) in memory of his parents. It aims to promote interdisciplinary dialogue across science, technology and the humanities.
What is ‘Compassion Quotient’? Satyarthi Explains
In his keynote address, Kailash Satyarthi emphasised that compassion goes beyond sympathy or empathy—
it is an action-driven force capable of transforming society.
He introduced the idea of a “Compassion Quotient (CQ)”, urging individuals to cultivate awareness, emotional connection and a sense of responsibility.
According to him, true compassion demands meaningful action to address the suffering of others, making it a critical value in today’s world.
Call for ‘Compassionate AI’ and Ethical Technology
Highlighting modern challenges, Satyarthi warned against increasing social indifference and stressed that compassion must guide all sectors—including technology, governance, business and the judiciary.
He advocated the concept of “compassionate AI”, urging that ethical responsibility be embedded into technological development to ensure inclusive and humane progress.
He also encouraged students to become change-makers by combining knowledge with empathy.
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Director Calls Event a Historic Milestone
Welcoming the Nobel laureate, Director Prof. Sukumar Mishra described the event as a historic occasion for IIT (ISM). He thanked Mihir Sinha for instituting the lecture series and wished him a speedy recovery.
He highlighted that true peace emerges when science serves humanity, citing Satyarthi as a global example of how local efforts can create worldwide impact.
Message from Mihir Sinha Highlights Human Values
In a message read out during the event, Mihir Sinha expressed regret over his absence due to hospitalisation following an accident.
He described the lecture series as a tribute to his parents’ humanitarian values and praised Satyarthi as a symbol of compassion and courage. He also stressed the importance of the humanities in fostering empathy, critical thinking and a just society.
Overwhelming Response at Penman Auditorium
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty, students, officers and staff. The Penman Auditorium saw a full house, with vibrant engagement throughout the session.
The lecture concluded on an inspiring note, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and marking a memorable milestone in IIT (ISM) Dhanbad’s centenary year.
