Gandhian Engineering?

in Blog
February 5th, 2011

Dr. Mashelkar’s speech presents a new approach to solve problems that will mean “more for less for more.”  What does this mean?  We need to look for solutions that provide “value for many,” rather than “value for money.”  By requiring products to be extremely affordable, innovative products emerged, such as the Nano car, Jaipur Foot and a treatment for Psoriasis.  Drawing upon different fields and using non-traditional materials and methods enabled developers to meet their customers’ needs.  In Gandian engineering innovators from different fields come together to solve problems for many, rather than focusing on creating solutions only the elite that can afford.

While there is a fair amount of disagreement (see the comments on the page), in particular about success of the Nano car, Dr. Mashelkar’s message is clear:  We must unite to move forward.

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/r_a_mashelkar_breakthrough_designs_for_ultra_low_cost_products.html