'Science has helped shape modern India', says PM Modi

Stating that science had helped shape modern India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday praised India's scientists for placing the country at the forefront of the world in many areas.

"Human development has been larger purpose and driving force of India's scientific pursuits. And, science has helped shape modern India. Our scientists have placed us at the forefront of the world in many areas. Whenever the world shut its door on us, our scientists responded with the zeal of a national mission," Prime Minister Modi said in his inaugural address at the 102nd Indian Science Congress at the Mumbai University.

The Prime Minister added that the dreams everyone shares for India will depend as much on science and technology as they will on policy and resources.

"Our achievements give us pride, but they do not blind us to the enormous challenges that we face in India. There is a mood of optimism for change in the country, the energy to pursue it, and, confidence to achieve it. But, the dreams we all share for India will depend as much on science and technology as it will on policy and resources," he pointed out.

Prime Minister Modi further said that the arms of science, technology and innovation must reach the poorest, the remotest and the most vulnerable person.

"To me, the arms of science, technology and innovation must reach the poorest, the remotest and the most vulnerable person. Our investments in science and technology are far too concentrated in the agencies of Central government and must become more broad-based. Have placed science and technology at the forefront of our diplomatic engagement," he said.