India Calls for Global Recognition of Its Foundational Role in Mathematics and Science at United Nations

Dr Jaishankar made the remarks while inaugurating an exhibition on India’s contribution to mathematics at the headquarters of the United Nations in New York. The exhibition highlighted India’s historic achievements in mathematics and their continuing influence on modern technological advancement.

During his address, the minister referred to the binary numerical system developed in India during the third century, describing it as the foundation upon which the digital era and the global journey into artificial intelligence have been built. He stated that the exhibition serves as a reminder that mathematics is a universal language whose spread has consistently contributed to global progress and public good.

Dr Jaishankar also referred to the AI Impact Summit hosted in India in February this year, stating that the event delivered a strong message that creativity and innovation cannot remain confined to a limited group of nations or institutions. He stressed that technological progress and innovation must become more inclusive and globally accessible.

The minister further stated that correcting historical distortions is essential for addressing the challenges of the future accurately. According to him, the democratisation of technology and the broader democratisation of the world require a parallel democratisation of history that fairly acknowledges contributions made by different civilisations.

The interactive exhibition, titled “Global Diffusion of Mathematics,” was developed under the India International Centre’s SAMHITA programme. The initiative aims to showcase India’s intellectual heritage across disciplines including medicine, mathematics, architecture, philosophy, aesthetics, and literature.

A series of digital panels at the exhibition presents India’s ancient mathematical achievements, ranging from the development of the binary numerical system to major advancements in algebra and calculus. The exhibition underscores India’s enduring role in shaping scientific thought and technological evolution across centuries.

The event at the United Nations reinforced India’s effort to position its historical contributions to mathematics and science within the broader global narrative, while advocating for a more inclusive understanding of the origins of modern knowledge and innovation.