Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Sep 26: The Indian Navy recently wrapped up a two-day workshop titled “Blending Ancient Wisdom with Modern Cognitive Science” in Kochi, aimed at enhancing operational safety by integrating age-old philosophical insights with contemporary scientific principles. The workshop was led by Capt. Amit Singh, founder of the Safety Matters Foundation, and attended by 33 officers from various Naval commands.
On the first day, discussions revolved around the cultural and cognitive dimensions of safety through the lens of Indian philosophy. Capt. Singh highlighted the distinction between the “mind” (manas) and the “brain,” noting that while the brain processes information biologically, the mind is susceptible to distractions, potentially causing lapses in attention—termed “cognitive lock-up” in modern safety terminology. Ancient practices such as dhyana (focused meditation) and self-regulation were emphasized as practical tools to enhance awareness, focus, and decision-making in high-pressure operational environments. The session also addressed organizational hierarchy and the Power Distance Index (PDI), proposing that lessons from Indian teachings on respectful dialogue can encourage subordinates to voice safety concerns freely.
The second day focused on global best practices and cognitive science applications. A key highlight was Japan’s Shisa Kanko, or “pointing and calling” technique, used in railway operations to reinforce attention through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic cues. Capt. Singh noted that this method complements attention-management principles found in Indian philosophy, turning routine tasks into deliberate, mindful acts. Participants also examined inattentional blindness—a cognitive limitation leading to missed critical information—and explored combining mindfulness with structured interventions to mitigate such risks.
Further discussions addressed semiotics in safety communication, emphasizing intuitive use of colors, symbols, and shapes, and the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in supporting human vigilance. Capt. Singh stressed that while AI can enhance safety systems, human judgment, adaptability, and ethical responsibility remain irreplaceable.
Rear Admiral Srinivas Madulla, Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST), felicitated Capt. Singh at the workshop’s conclusion, underscoring the Navy’s vision of cultivating a safety culture that draws on traditional wisdom while embracing modern innovation. The workshop underscored that operational safety is not merely about compliance but about cultivating consciousness, attention, and discipline—where ancient knowledge and modern science together provide a robust framework for excellence.