Top scientists in India, heads of national laboratories and scientific institutions, and officials congregated at the ‘Science Leaders Conclave 2022’ held at CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) here on Saturday.
It is a rare congregation where various aspects of science, its evolution in India, current and emerging challenges, and possible solutions were discussed.
An important aspect of the conclave was contribution of scientists in pre-independence era, challenges faced by them, and sacrifices made during the arduous journey. The conclave, inaugurated on Saturday, was jointly organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology, and Vijnana Bharati.
Convenor of the conclave and director of CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute-Lucknow, S.K. Barik said there are two objectives of the conclave. One is to discuss sacrifices made by eminent scientists of pre-independence era such as giving up lucrative jobs abroad to lay foundations of science and establish industries in the country. The other is to discuss five themes — energy security, One Health, applications of artificial Intelligence for water, agriculture, and environment management, climate change, and role of science and technology for meeting Sustainable Development Goals.
Brainstorming sessions on the themes were scheduled to be held where problems were to be identified and draw future road map for science and technology solutions.
Jayant Sahasrabudhe, organising secretary-VIBBHA, spoke about ‘Contributions of scientists to freedom movement’. The second topic presented on Saturday was ‘Presentations highlighting achievements since independence’.
Department of Science and Technology secretary S. Chandrasekhar said the deliberations at the conclave will become a white paper for the future. He cited white revolution and green revolution, to drive home the point about the efforts taken up to ensure no Indian starves and no kid is deprived of milk. “These revolutions have made India a frontrunner in the world,” he said.
CSIR director-general Shekhar C. Mande and Department of Biotechnology secretary Rajesh S. Gokhale were present at the inaugural session.
