PM: Five ‘E’s for effective impact of science

In his inaugural address at the Indian Science Congress, he said that with the spirit of cooperative federalism that is shaping Centre-state relations in every area, he is also for greater scientific collaboration between central and state-level institutions and agencies.

Modi asked scientists from India and overseas at the five-day mega science event to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern science so that localised and more sustainable solutions to the challenges could be found.

He said the impact of science would be the most when scientists and technologists keep the principles of what he called “Five Es” at the centre of their enquiry and engineering. “’Energy’ — when our prosperity relies less on energy and the energy we use keeps our skies blue and our Earth green. ‘Empathy’ — when our efforts are in tune with our culture, circumstances and social challenges. ‘Equity’ — when science advances inclusive development and improves the welfare of the weakest,” he said.

Modi said good governance was not just about policy and decision making, transparency and accountability but also about integrating science and technology into the choices to be made and the strategies to be pursued. He said he has asked for a framework of scientific audit for scientific departments and institutions in the government. 

“We will also try to increase the level of resources for science and deploy them in accordance with our strategic priorities,” he said at the 103rd session of ISC at ‘Manasa Gangotri’ campus of the University of Mysore that is also celebrating its centenary. 

“We will make it easier to do science and research in India, improve science administration and expand and improve the quality of science education and research in India,” he said. Some 500 eminent scientists and experts are attending the Congress with the focal theme, ‘Science and Technology for Indigenous Development in India’ in tune with Modi’s big push for ‘Make in India’ programme.