Government’s Perspective on Science & Technology discussed at the 103rd Indian Science Congress being held from 3rd to 7th of January 2016

Introduction

A special session on “Government’s Perspectives on Science & Technology” was organised at the ongoing 103rd Indian Science Congress being held in the University of Mysore, from 3rd to 7th 0f January 2016. 

Chairing this session the Member (Science & Technology) of Niti Aayog Dr. V.K. Saraswat, gave an overview of scientific perspective, future challenges and opportunities by making a presentation at the outset. He also summed up deliberations of the session and said that we need to focus on certain cutting edge technologies in the coming years, not only to become a leader in these sectors but also to deploy them for the benefit of our country. 

Secretaries or the representatives of seven departments of the Government of India have also made their presentations in the session. The department of Bio Technology had made a presentation and the National Biotechnology Development Strategy (2015-2020) and discussions were held on the same. 

The session was aimed at deliberating on how the Science and Technology can benefit the nation in its march to development by finding solutions to very complex problems being faced by the society and also highlight the efforts that are being made in different Ministries and Departments of the Government to align their activities to achieve success in the ongoing National Missions – like the Swacch Bharat, Swasth Bharat, Make in India, Digital India etc. 

Deliberations also centred on the application of modern tools and technology in the areas of food security, rural health and health for all, Energy and Water security, Urbanisation and several issues of national importance. The Session also flagged some of the cutting edge S&T programmes to be pursued in the country to achieve global recognition and respect. The focus would be on pursuing ‘Value added research’ in our institutions of higher learning to support accelerated development of our country. 

Source

Press Information Bureau, January 05, 2016