Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Feb 9: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh stated today that India’s remarkable advancements are evident through global accomplishments such as the “Vaccine” and “Chandrayaan”.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new “Vigyan Bharati” office in the capital, he highlighted the importance of this establishment as a long-awaited necessity. He pointed out that this office will act as a hub for idea exchange and a center for knowledge.
During the ceremony, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, as well as MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, remarked that India is undergoing a transformative phase in the field of science under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He emphasized that the Prime Minister not only advocates for scientific progress but also provides steadfast support to the scientific community, equipping them with resources and fostering partnerships with non-governmental sectors for optimal results.
Reflecting on the last decade’s progress, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that while India has always possessed significant scientific talent, the crucial component of commitment and prioritization from political leaders was previously lacking—something that is now being addressed with vigor under PM Modi’s administration.
He noted India’s significant strides in healthcare, emphasizing that the country, once dismissed in curative healthcare, is now emerging as a global leader in preventative healthcare. He proudly cited achievements such as the first DNA vaccine developed during the pandemic, the first indigenous HPV vaccine for cervical cancer prevention, and rapid advancements in space technology, despite having started late in this arena.
Furthermore, he reiterated India’s dedication to global climate change initiatives, reaffirming the nation’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also stressed the value of the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), describing it as a significant repository of indigenous wisdom, and highlighted examples like:
The Konark Temple in Odisha, which withstood the super cyclone of 2000, exemplifying India’s architectural resilience.
Growing interest in traditional medicine during the pandemic, which saw the West exploring homeopathy and naturopathy for potential solutions.
He referenced India’s collaboration with the Tata Group in using steel slag for road construction in Arunachal Pradesh, drawing parallels with the enduring roads of Ajanta and Ellora that have stood the test of time.
Quoting Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Dr. Singh stated, “While honoring our legacy, we should not overlook what is occurring globally.” He urged Vigyan Bharati to act as an interface for identifying initiatives and cultivating collaborations, akin to successful platforms like IN-SPACe and BIRAC in the space and biotechnology sectors, respectively.
He also announced India’s recent pharmaceutical breakthrough with the indigenous antibiotic ‘Nafithromycin,’ reinforcing India’s status as a leader in both traditional and innovative technologies.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that integration has become a necessity rather than an option, calling upon Vigyan Bharati to be a key facilitator for broader scientific integration. He expressed confidence that such initiatives will propel India’s ascent as a global powerhouse in science and technology.
