Harsh Vardhan inaugurates geophysical observatory at Shoal Bay in Port Blair

Union Science and Technology Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan has said that India can now boast of being one of the most scientifically advanced countries to tackle any situation effectively arising out of natural calamities and disasters.

Inaugurating the multi-parametric geophysical observatory set up by the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism at Shoal Bay No. 8 in Port Blair on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Harsh Vardhan attributed this to the invaluable contributions made by Indian scientists who, he said, continue to make relentless efforts for their scientific innovations for the development of the country.

On the occasion, Dr. Harsha Vardhan recalled the horror of the December 2004 Tsunami disaster that shook the entire nation, and said "our scientists are now well equipped with early warning systems to tackle eventualities such as this.

Dr. Harsh Vardhan said India is much ahead in terms of Early Warning Systems and this is evident from the fact that about 28 nations depend and act upon the real time data provided by India, which, he said, "is a matter of great pride for all of us."

Dr. Harsha Vardhan said his dream from childhood to visit these islands once during his life time had also been fulfilled.

Lt. Governor, Lt Gen. A K Singh (Retired), Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray, Chief Secretary Anand Prakash, and senior officers of the island administration, were among those present on the occassion.