"Science is a tool to empower and emancipate people. Unless our internal asymmetries are bridged, India will lack human development," he said addressing the scientific community at a function here.
"Our scientists must provide viable solutions to national problems of food, nutrition, energy, environment and water security," he emphasised.
The Prime Minister said the government has taken a number of foundational steps to promote India's long-term economic and social transformation through science.
"These achievements of the SAC should be documented and publicised as a roadmap to lead India to knowledge, prosperity and power," he said.
He expressed confidence that SAC will continue to push the frontiers of Indian science in excellence and relevance.