During a conference titled “Transformation of Tribal Lives through Science and Technological Interventions — Preserving Language, Faith and Culture” in New Delhi, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan stressed the vision of “Viksit Bharat by 2047,” which promotes the idea of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (progress along with tradition). He argued that modern development and the preservation of traditions are not opposing forces but rather complementary. Radhakrishnan noted the exceptional traditional knowledge of tribal communities, which plays a crucial role in biodiversity and sustainable forest resource use. He also highlighted the potential for green economic development in tribal areas, emphasizing their skills in design and textiles that have been maintained over generations. Furthermore, he mentioned key government initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan, which has sanctioned more than 2,400 roads spanning nearly 7,300 kilometres and over 160 bridges, aimed at empowering particularly vulnerable tribal groups through comprehensive service delivery and infrastructure development.