Come out with "out-of-the-box-solutions", VP tells budding

Young scientists must be encouraged to come out with "out-of-the-box" solutions or "disruptive technologies" that can help solve scientific problems and impart fresh impetus to development, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said today.

Noting that ancient India has had a long tradition of scientific inquiry and a number of achievements, too, he said, "We must draw inspiration from this rich heritage and add to rich repository of thought and innovation."

The vice president was addressing students and research scholars during his visit to the the Centre for Nano Science and Engineering at the Indian Institute of Science here.

Highlighting that innovation plays a key role in driving knowledge-based economy, Naidu said this is the time for India to capitalize on its demographic advantage as 65 per cent of the population is below 35 years of age.
 

"Young and budding scientists must be encouraged to come out with out-of-the-box solutions or disruptive technologies that will help in finding solutions to scientific problems and leapfrogging development," he said.

For this to happen, a proper ecosystem has to be created in every scientific institution where excellence should be the touchstone, he said.

Directors, team leaders and project leaders should make special efforts in mentoring and handholding talented and bright students and young scientists, he said.

"Encouragement is key," Naidu added.

"We must equip the young minds with the knowledge and skills required to pursue research and make a lasting contribution to the world of scientific knowledge," Naidu was quoted as saying in the speech copies of which were circulated by the Press Information Bureau.

Media was not invited to the event, which was also attended by Karnataka Governor Vajubai Vala and Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy, among others.

Pointing out that the scientific discoveries have been continuously opening up further doors to acquisition of new knowledge and newer inventions, the vice president said the widening of knowledge base was happening at a very fast pace.

"It can happen faster and have a positive impact on human lives if you can keep the spirit of partnership alive," he said.

Naidu emphasised on the need to expand knowledge networks and enter into partnerships that will accelerate the pace and quality of the outcomes.

"It is not possible for government to do this alone. We need creative partnership arrangements so that our efforts are useful for the larger humanity."

The academic circles, industrial houses and the government must look at the societal challenges and seek answers through collaborations and partnerships, he said.