Gulte News
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and philanthropist, sparked controversy on social media after referring to India as a “laboratory to try things” during a podcast discussion.
While the context of the remark was meant to highlight India’s progress in various sectors, the choice of words drew sharp criticism from netizens and public figures alike.
In the podcast, Gates acknowledged India’s challenges but praised the country’s advancements in health, education, and nutrition over the years.
He pointed out that India’s ability to experiment with innovative solutions, particularly in areas like healthcare, had contributed to the nation’s growth.
However, his use of the term “laboratory to try things” was seen as patronizing by many, with critics arguing that it reduced India to a mere testing ground for experiments rather than recognizing its status as a sovereign nation with its own achievements.
The backlash was swift, with many questioning Gates’ perspective on India, given his philanthropic work in the country through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Gates later attempted to clarify his statement, but the controversy continued to stir debate about Western perceptions of developing nations. This incident highlights the sensitivity around how global leaders address the challenges and progress of countries like India.
