An International Science Ministers Meet, held to Discuss Food Security and Innovation for Inclusive Development

Introduction

An International meet of Science Ministers of various countries was held at Sohna Haryana to discuss several issues including food security, future of oceans and innovation for inclusive development among others. Science Ministers and Scientific advisors from Canada, France, Germany, Japan, U.K, USA, South Africa, European Commission were among those who participated. The Indian side was represented by the Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Harsha Vardhan, the Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Shri Y. S. Chowdary and the Secretary, Department of Science & Technology Shri Ashutosh Sharma. The three day meet concluded this afternoon (22.11.2015). 

Indian side presented a paper on the subject of ‘Innovation for Inclusive development’ and discussions took place with all participants giving their views on the subject. In his remarks the Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Harsha Vardhan said efforts should be made through science to find practical solutions to improve the quality of life of the people. He called upon all countries to collaborate towards this end for the welfare of the humanity. The Minister of state for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Shri Y. S. Chowdary said that there should be linkages established between researchers, entrepreneurs and investors for bringing benefits of science, to the people. 

Issues relating to joint research for preservation of the marine environment, harnessing research and innovation for nutrition and sustainable agriculture were also taken up for discussion by ministers attending the conference.

This meeting relates to the forum of Science & Technology ministers, initially formed in 1991, consisting members of the G 8 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States and also the European Commission representing the European Union. The group was subsequently joined by O 5(Emerging Economies- Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa) in 2007. This is the first time that India is hosting the meeting of this group which came to be called as Carnegie Group. 

Source

Press Information Bureau, November 22, 2015