"Scientific innovation can strengthen industry and transform society by facilitating the transition to a high-value, knowledge-based economy. This transition is well underway in India - for decades a leader in the field of information technology," he said, after distributing Infosys Prize 2013 here.
Stating that at the root of scientific advances is the brilliance, imagination and hard-work of talented people, he said "the leaders in scientific innovation will therefore be those countries which maximise the potential of their citizens and retain the brightest and best minds."
In today's interconnected world, we cannot stop people moving to take advantage of the opportunities that exist around them. The answer is to provide the conditions and incentives where they can realise their dreams at home, he added.
Noting that Indian scientists and researchers increasingly no longer feel the need to travel abroad to fulfil their potential, Annan said "Opportunities for cutting-edge work and research here are multiplying."
Annan however sounded a word of caution by stating that "there is, however, no room for complacency."
Stressing on the need for investment in research, he said "India's goal of becoming a global education superpower - and its continued strong economic growth - cannot be achieved without significant investment and effort.