The human brain is the most advanced and remarkably complex machine, driven by a uniquely designed biosocial processing system. It compels us to solve the challenges that have emerged over centuries of human civilization's progress. Although western scientists and intellectuals commonly believe that modern science began around the 15th century, the Indian tradition holds a different view, supported by strong data and evidence that practical science existed over 5,000 years ago. However, this is not a debate about the origins of science. It is important to recognize that scientific progress, as documented in historical records, is generally aligned with the views of Western scientists and historians. From the 16^th to the 19^th centuries, almost all fundamental aspects of science were extensively explored, leading to significant growth in every field of human endeavours. The discoveries and inventions of this period laid the foundation for monumental achievements in quantum computing, genetic engineering, complicate biomedical implants, artificial intelligence, and even the possibility of human colonies on Mars within the next 50 years. The 21^st century is defined by unprecedented technological advancements, truly embodying the idea of standing on the shoulders of giants as even the greatest minds like Newton and Einstein built their insights upon the work of ancient thinkers.

Today, major tech companies are heavily investing in ambitious areas such as human immortality, lifespan extension, gene editing, age reversal, near-human artificial consciousness, and disease-free living. Even though these goals may currently seem impossible or unfeasible, history suggests that they will eventually become practical realities. However, amid these ambitious pursuits, the scientific community and intellectual class appear to be neglecting the immediate and pressing challenges faced by humanity. And in this regard, the saying "Common sense is the most uncommon" seems particularly relevant here. Despite astonishing technological progress, issues such as access to clean drinking water, hunger, environmental degradation, and inequality remain severe concerns. According to UNICEF, nearly two-thirds of the world’s population (~4 billion people) experience severe water scarcity for at least one month each year, a figure expected to rise due to climate change, political instability, and economic factors. Seawater desalination, which converts seawater into drinkable water, is a potential solution to the global water crisis . However, despite being a proven technology, desalination remains largely inaccessible to the common people due to high costs, making it affordable only through substantial government subsidies. This highlights the gap between scientific capability and practical implementation.

Another example is the persistent issue of food insecurity. Despite advancements in agricultural science, nearly 800 million people worldwide suffer from chronic hunger. Investments in precision agriculture, genetically modified crops, and vertical farming could dramatically improve food production and accessibility, but these technologies remain underfunded and unevenly distributed. In the same line, healthcare presents another missed opportunity. While cutting-edge medical research focuses on age reversal, creation of immortal human, and human enhancement, millions of people lack access to basic healthcare. Vaccines, antibiotics, and life-saving treatments remain unavailable to large populations due to economic and logistical barriers. Very critically, renewable energy technologies like water, solar, wind, and geothermal power have the potential to reduce global dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change. Yet, the transition to clean energy is significantly slow, hindered by lack of cutting-edge research, political and economic resistance.

Therefore, true science, at its core, is meant to serve humanity. However, at present the focus on technological innovation mainly for profitability, self-glorification and intellectual dominance has shifted attention away from improving the quality of life for ordinary people. If the scientific community and major tech companies redirected even 50% of their resources toward solving basic human problems, like clean water, food security, healthcare, and sustainable energy, humanity could achieve a higher standard of living globally. Thus, scientists, governments, and large corporations must recognize that true progress lies not only in technological breakthroughs but also in their equitable application for the benefit of all humanity. I believe, it is very high time for the scientific community to follow the footprint of scientist like Dr. Norman Borlaug. Borlaug dedicated his life to addressing global hunger and improving food security through scientific innovation. In the mid-20th century, Borlaug developed high-yield, disease-resistant wheat varieties, which dramatically increased crop production, particularly in developing countries like Mexico, China, Brazil India, and Pakistan. At a time when food shortages and famine were widespread, Borlaug's research directly contributed to saving millions of lives. His work involved not only laboratory research but also fieldwork, working closely with farmers to teach them new agricultural techniques and ensure that his scientific discoveries were effectively applied in real-world conditions. Borlaug faced significant resistance from political leaders, agricultural traditionalists, and even some environmental groups, but he remained focused on the core mission of reducing hunger. His efforts helped transform food production in South Asia and Latin America, preventing mass starvation and improving the quality of life for countless people. Despite winning numerous prestigious awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970, Borlaug remained humble and focused on solving real human problems rather than seeking profit. He often expressed frustration that political and economic barriers prevented further progress in addressing global hunger. Identically, Dr. Jonas Salk, the scientist who developed the first successful polio vaccine. In the early 20th century, polio was one of the most feared diseases in the world, causing paralysis and death, especially among children. Salk’s groundbreaking work in the 1950s led to the development of an effective and safe vaccine that eventually eradicated polio in most parts of the world. What sets Salk apart is that he chose not to patent the vaccine, despite the potential for enormous personal financial gain. When asked who owned the patent, Salk famously replied, "There is no patent. Could you patent the sun?" Salk’s motivation was not profit or recognition but a genuine desire to prevent human suffering. His work not only saved millions of lives but also inspired global vaccination campaigns that have continued to protect future generations from polio and other infectious diseases. After the success of the polio vaccine, Salk continued his research into immunology, multiple sclerosis, and cancer, always prioritizing public health over personal gain.......

( from my up coming book; Santosh K. Tiwari )