Let science, technology become strong tool of inclusive development: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday vowed to support different streams of scientific knowledge and said the government will remain committed to provide the best support to scientists and scientific institutions.

"The nation will always be grateful to the scientists, who have worked tirelessly to empower our society by their vision, labour and leadership. Tomorrow's experts will come from investments we make today in our people and infrastructure. The government is committed to supporting different streams of scientific knowledge," Prime Minister Modi said at the inauguration of 104th Indian Science Congress in Tirupati.

The Prime Minister said there is a need to keep an eye on the rise of disruptive technologies and be prepared to leverage them for growth.

"One important area that needs to be addressed is the rapid global rise of Cyber-Physical Systems. There is a need to develop and exploit these technologies in services and manufacturing sectors," he added.

Prime Minister Modi said that his government is committed to supporting different streams of scientific research and hoped that India's best scientific institutions should strengthen basic research in line with global practices.

"Our best science and technology institutions should further strengthen their basic research in line with leading global standards. Translating this basic knowledge into innovations, start-ups and industry will help us achieve inclusive and sustainable growth. Science must meet the rising aspirations of our people," he added.

Prime Minister Modi said seeding the power of ideas and innovation in schoolchildren will broaden the base of our innovation pyramid and secure the nation's future.

"The role of science in planning, decision making and governance has never been more important. Our scientists have contributed strongly to the strategic vision of the nation. The government remains committed to provide the best support to our scientists and scientific institutions," he added

He said another empowering factor for scientific delivery is the Ease of Doing Science.

"If we want science to deliver, we must not constrain it," he said.

The Prime Minister also called for creating an environment to share ideas so that "the brightest and best in every corner of India should have the opportunity to excel in science".

"On the lines of Corporate Social Responsibility, the concept of Scientific Social Responsibility needs to be inculcated. To connect our leading institutions to all stakeholders including schools and colleges. The brightest and best in every corner of India should have the opportunity to excel in science," he added.