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Can a Machine Lead? SBS University’s 17th National Debate Competition Puts Artificial Intelligence, Talent, and Human Judgment in the Dock

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) : There is something fitting about a debate on artificial intelligence taking place in a university that has been building human minds for over three decades. Sardar Bhagwan Singh University (SBS University), Dehradun, North India’s oldest university with a 32-year legacy, concluded the 17th edition of the Sardar Gurcharan Singh Memorial National Debate Competition on April 4, 2026, with the kind of intellectual energy that reminded everyone in the room why human conversation still matters, even in an AI-driven world. 

The theme this year was not chosen at random: “The Age of Artificial Intelligence is Redefining the Meaning of Talent and Leadership.” With over 80 teams registered from universities across India, 46 shortlisted, and more than 100 students stepping onto the competition floor, the debate was as much a reflection of the times as it was a contest. For a single day on a 25-acre campus in Dehradun, young voices took on the biggest question in contemporary education: what does a human being bring to the table that a machine cannot? 

A Stage Set with Purpose 

The competition opened with the lamp-lighting ceremony and the university song, a deliberate nod to tradition in a conversation entirely about the future. In his welcome address, Prof. (Dr.) J. Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of SBS University, set the intellectual tone for the day immediately. 

“In the age of AI, talent is no longer about being a walking encyclopedia. It is about cognitive agility and curiosity. When a machine can provide the answer in seconds, the truly talented individual is the one who knows how to ask the better question. Leadership in the age of AI requires ethical stewardship, human-centric vision, and sound judgment under

uncertainty.” 

 — Prof. (Dr.) J. Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, SBS University 

It was the kind of framing that set the competition apart from a standard university event. This was not a debate about whether AI is good or bad. It was a deeper reckoning, one that asked students to think carefully about what human beings are actually for, and what makes a leader worth following when algorithms can make faster decisions than any person in the room. 

The Chief Guest: A Scientist’s Perspective on What Machines Cannot Do Dr. Ajay Kumar, Outstanding Scientist and Director of IRDE-DRDO, Dehradun, graced the inaugural session as Chief Guest. His address carried the weight of a career spent at the intersection of technology and national defence, a field where the stakes of getting AI wrong are higher than almost anywhere else. 

“In this AI-driven landscape, talent has migrated from the technical to the conceptual. We no longer need human calculators; we need human architects of thought. Modern talent is found in the Three Cs: Critical Thinking, Creativity, and Compassion. While AI can synthesize existing data, it cannot experience a eureka moment born of lived experience. It can mimic style, but it cannot possess a soul. The talent of tomorrow lies in managing the machine, not competing with it.” 

 — Dr. Ajay Kumar, Outstanding Scientist & Director, IRDE-DRDO, Dehradun 

The “Three Cs” framing, Critical Thinking, Creativity, and Compassion, became something of an anchor for the day’s debates. Students returned to it repeatedly as they argued their positions, and more than one judge cited it in their feedback. 

The Valedictory: On Imagination as the Real Ceiling 

The closing session was addressed by Dr. S. Farooq, President of Himalaya Wellness Company, whose perspective brought a corporate and entrepreneurial lens to a day dominated by academic voices. His core argument was simple, memorable, and hard to argue with.

“We are transitioning from an age of knowing to an age of thinking. Technical skill is the floor, but imagination is the ceiling. AI is not a replacement for human intelligence; it is a magnifying glass for human creativity.” 

 — Dr. S. Farooq, President, Himalaya Wellness Company 

Prof. Gaurav Deep Singh, President of SBS University, congratulated the winners, praised the organising team, and reaffirmed something that institutions with genuine legacy can say with credibility: that nurturing spaces for meaningful dialogue is not incidental to education. It is what education is for. 

The Winners 

After a day of closely contested rounds, the results were announced at the closing ceremony. The Best Team award went to Vaishali Singh and Aarushi Maikuri of SBS University itself, a moment that drew particular warmth from the home crowd. The First Prize in the English category was shared between Vaishali Singh (SBS University) and Rajshree (Doon University). Third Prize went to Aarushi Maikuri (SBS University). Bhavya Pathak (Divine College of Medical Sciences) received the Consolation Prize. The First Prize in the Hindi category to Aditya Kirti (Hindu College, University of Delhi). Second Prize to Vidhan Malik (Lovely Professional University). Third Prize to Pravez Khan (Jigyasa University, Dehradun). 

The judging panel comprised Mrs. Damini Puri (Summer Valley School), Ms. Poonam Gupta (Head, Engineering Services & AFLAD, CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun), and Dr. Sunil Kumar Pathak (Chief Scientist and Head, Climate Change and Data Science Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun). Their assessments drew on expertise spanning education, science, and applied research, a panel as multi-disciplinary as the competition’s theme demanded. 

A University That Has Been Doing This for 32 Years 

Events like the Sardar Gurcharan Singh Memorial Debate do not happen in isolation. They are expressions of a culture, and SBS University’s culture has been building for over three decades. As North India’s oldest university, UGC-listed and approved by AICTE, PCI, and IAP, the institution has long believed that what happens outside the lecture hall shapes students as much as what happens inside it. 

 

The numbers reflect this. With a 90%+ placement rate, 500+ companies visiting campus annually, 200+ placements every year, and a highest package of ₹15 LPA+, SBS University’s graduates are clearly

entering the workforce ready. The 70+ expert faculty, of whom 60+ hold Ph.D. degrees, work with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio that makes real mentorship possible, not just a talking point in a brochure. 

The research ecosystem is equally serious. Over 1,000 research publications, 50+ patents, and 30+ government-funded projects, backed by more than ₹2 crore in research grants from DST, AYUSH, UCOST, and USERC, make SBS University one of the more productive research institutions of its size in the country. The dedicated Institution’s Innovation Cell (IIC) adds an entrepreneurial layer to this, giving students who want to build something a real infrastructure to do it in. 

And then there are the 11,000+ alumni, working at AIIMS, Apollo, Fortis, PSUs, and international universities, who are themselves the most honest measure of what the university has built over 32 years. 

About Sardar Bhagwan Singh University (SBS University) 

Sardar Bhagwan Singh University (SBS University), located in Balawala, Dehradun, is North India’s oldest university with over 32 years of academic legacy. UGC-listed and approved by AICTE, PCI, and IAP, the university offers programs across pharmacy, science, engineering, management, and allied health sciences. With a 90%+ placement rate, 500+ recruiting companies, 70+ expert faculty, including 60+ Ph.D. holders, ₹2 crore+ in research grants, 50+ patents, and an alumni network of 11,000+ professionals working at AIIMS, Apollo, Fortis, PSUs, and international institutions, SBS University has built a quiet but consistent record of producing graduates who are genuinely ready for the world.

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Daily Astro

03-06-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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03-06-2026