Paper short abstract:

Analyzing political speeches from independence until today, the paper aims at tracing the reoccurring idea of moving towards a rational and modern society through the advancement of technology. In what way are technology and ideas of 'tradition' and 'modernity' interwoven in discourse and action?

Paper long abstract:

Looking at political speeches on 'development' in post-independence India, the importance of technology is a prominent and reoccurring theme. Within the framework of the need for technological advancement for the growth of the country, a reappearing image of overcoming old traditions and moving towards rationality and modernity, can be found. Next to 'developing' India, technology is also given the function of altering the social climate by fighting superstitions.

However, in contrast to the idea of technology being a rational, 'modern' field, ongoing practice of e.g. holding religious ceremonies for the success of infrastructure projects can be observed. How do these acts go together with, as suggested by the speeches, rationality of technology?

The paper aims at analyzing this nexus between the seemingly opposing entities of 'tradition' and 'modernity' in which technology is negotiated. It will do so by tracing the discourse on technology in speeches by Indian Prime Ministers from independence until today. Additionally, the Indian River Interlinking Project will serve as an empirical example. The scheme aims at creating an inland water network connecting a majority of India's rivers through the construction of waterways and dams. The paper looks at the relation between speech and action in light of the example. In how far is 'modernity' being negotiated here? How has the negotiation of technology in political speeches changed over time from independence until today? What social function is technology supposed to fulfill? The interwovenness of technology with 'traditions' and 'modernity' is traced in discourse and in practice.