Remove illiteracy, superstitions from country: Scientists
LUCKNOW: Scientists of Lucknow gave a call for removing ignorance, illiteracy and superstitions from the nation during a seminar organised at UP Press Club to mark the 75th anniversary of Quit India Movement. They also underlined the need for enhanced support for science and technology so that Indian could attain a lead position in the international sphere.
Padma Shri Nitya Anand, former director, Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), gave a comprehensive account of the progress made by the country in the field of science and technology and how it led to better health and higher life expectancy.
He said science understands events in a cause-and-effect framework. When this knowledge is translated into useful applications, technology is born. He said higher allocation in the budget for science and technology as well as to education, particularly of the young, was the need of the hour.
Dr JK Johri, former NBRI scientist and secretary of CSIR Pensioners’ Association, elaborated how senior scientists, who have finished their innings in the laboratory, could contribute to social welfare. Science, he said, had a role outside the laboratory too. He said retired scientists could help educate those who can’t go for formal schooling.
Senior citizens should also engage in public education on issues of science and contribute to the cleanliness mission. Nikhil Kumar, formerly with NBRI, said there was need for revaluating our customs.
Samana Habib of CDRI referred to Article 51 A(h) of the Indian Constitution and said scientific temper and the spirit of enquiry had been listed as duties because they were key to our social fabric.
CM Nautiyal reminisced his own experiences how live commentary on total solar eclipse and the tactful handing of ‘moohnuchwa’ (face-scratcher) menace promoted scientific temper.”
Nitya Anand administered three pledges to all scientists, scholars, students and others present on the occasion to remain scientific in temper, maintain integrity and work for promoting S&T as well as conserving the environment.