Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 16, 2018, requested scientists to take forward their research from “the labs to the land” for the advantage of the people.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 105th Indian Science Congress here, he said, “The time is ripe to redefine R&D as Research for the Development of the nation. That is R&D in the real sense. Science is, after all, a means to a far greater end of making a difference in the lives of others, of furthering human progress and welfare.”
Modi said the country has to be “future-ready” and put to use the technology which is essential for the betterment of the country.
He highlighted the Clusters of Excellence in Science in cities around important scientific institutions with the purpose to create city-based R&D centres which will unite all science and technology associates, from education to industry.
He said it was his “personal request” that scientists spend 100 hours per annum with 100 students of classes 9 to 12 to discuss science and technology as it could help nurture scientific temperament among the youth.
PM also paid tributes to senior and renowned Indian scientists Prof Yashpal, Prof U R Roa and Baldev Raj, who passed away in last one year. Yashpal was known for his contribution to taking science to the masses while Rao and Raj were space and nuclear scientists.
PTI Inputs