<b>Letters:</b> Myth and matter

Unlike other critics of purveyors of Indian ancient science, Devangshu Datta points out in his column, "State-supported pseudo-science" (Viewpoint, January 10) that the misunderstanding between myth and matter is not confined to India alone. However, the current backing from the government to such a group of scientists arises from the fact that India is being ruled by a party that derives its learning from a religion-based organisation. At one level, this need not be derided as, in science, what is not proved does not mean it did not exist (the difference between discovery and invention) and what is proved today can be disproved later. Even so, as mentioned by the writer, such a state-supported activity should not be at the cost of other priorities.

At another level, assuming that India was ahead of the world in the claimed scientific achievements, its proponents must also ask as to why India now ranks far below in producing world-acknowledged research and scholars in science. They should ponder what needs to be done so that achievers such as Har Gobind Khorana don't have to utilise their talent abroad. Glorification of the past is useful only if it inspires vigorous action for the future and not for enjoying smug complacence.

Y G Chouksey, Pune

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