Need to focus on research in science and tech: Ex-Isro chief

Nagpur: Research is soul of science for which the government should allocate more funds so that India could make rapid progress and be at par with the developed countries, said Padma Vibhushan K Kasturirangan, former chief of Indian Space Research Organization (Isro) on Thursday.
Kasturirangan was replying to the felicitation after receiving Vanarai Foundation’s Dr Mohan Dharia Rashtranirman Puraskar 2020 at a programme held at National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (Neeri) auditorium. He was honoured for his outstanding contribution to national reconstruction and his pioneering work in space science.
Former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan, director of Neeri Rakesh Kumar, his predecessor Satish Wate, Dr Vedprakash Mishra, social worker Girish Gandhi and former minister Rajendra Mulak were seated on the dais.
Kasturirangan said countries like China spend a lot of money on scientific research. India too should focus on research in various fields and promote scientific temper for prosperity, he added.
“Isro and Neeri worked together in science, research and took measures to control pollution which proved fruitful,” he said. Praising Chavan, the scientist said he was one of the MPs who wholeheartedly supported the steps to promote science and technology.
In his address, Chavan recalled his association with Kasturirangan and said he worked with him for many years when he was a minister in the Union cabinet. He did justice to whatever responsibilities he was entrusted with while he was holding important positions, Chavan said.
The former CM said that quality of education should be improved and more investments made in science and research.
Mishra said intellectuals should play an active role for the betterment of the society. Honouring intellectuals is an indication of a healthy society and Kasturirangan getting the award is a matter of pride, he added.
Rekha Dandige Ghiya conducted the proceedings while Nilesh Khandekar, secretary of Vanarai Foundation, proposed a vote of thanks.
(Reporting by Rushabh Rathod)