Technology Bhavan: Seeing is believing
Prof. (Dr.) M A Shah
I have been a regular visitor to Department of Science and Technology (DST), New Delhi since 2011. The Department was established way back in 1970, with the novel objective of promoting science & technology in the country. From the last one decade, I have been a witness that these objectives and initiatives have been broadened, expanded and extended in all its dimensions, under the mentorship of Dr. Singh. He has given new wings to this roganisation, launching a number of innovative schemes for the bright boys and girls of the country. The good news is that the schemes have reached even to small villages across the country.
Not only the initiatives for the welfare of scientific community, and society at large, but also in its infrastructure. The department was housed in one storied building with dim-lit interiors. There were dark corridors and lightless rooms even after four decades of its establishment. Very recently, I visited the Department and it was unbelievable to see a marvellous infrastructure with new multi-storeyed buildings. It looks as an international centre of science diplomats. When enquired, all said this is your Minister Sahib. Trust me, it was an honour and privilege to see and hear about his vision and managerial skills. This should not be the matter of conflict; people who travel to Delhi should visit Technology Bhavan, Mehrauli Road, New Delhi and have a close look about its framework and functions.
The steps taken in emerging technologies such as National Hydrogen Mission, National Quantum Mission, Semi-conductor Mission and Space Science have become lessons for even developed countries. The green revolution and the promise to reduce carbon foot print shall soon be accomplished. Space Technology is virtually touching every person’s life, with application in different sectors like Railways and Highways, Agriculture and Water Mapping, Telemedicine and Robotic Surgery. We have covered unimaginable journey in the field of space technology and become a frontline nation in the development of space technology. We have steadily moved from the lab to land (long back) and very recently from lab to moon, with the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on South Pole of moon becoming the first country to achieve this feat. The unfulfilled dreams of Vikram Sarabhai and of Dr. A P J Kalam are being fulfilled by our passionate and powerful leader, no doubt with a support of eminent intellectuals heading major organisations and indeed the band of scientific advisors.
The impact of Indian scientific breakthroughs has significantly enhanced the ease of living for the common man. The success of Aroma Mission and Purple Revolution in J&K has resulted in over 3,000 Start Ups engaged in Lavender cultivation and has reached to far flung areas of north Kashmir. People are aware and acknowledge that many of his initiatives have made them to earn their livelihood with self-respect and contentment. National Science Foundation - NSF’s Science & Engineering Indicators 2022 report, mentions that India’s position globally in scientific publications has improved from 7th in 2010 to 3rd in 2020; also India’s scholarly output increased. Science and Technology are powerful drivers for progress and prosperity. Remember, science is linked to technology through application, technology is linked to economy and economy is linked to prosperity and prosperity leads to peace in societies.
A physician known for his work on diabetes and endocrinology tuned out to be the role model with all qualities. The deficiency of leadership in Jammu and Kashmir is indeed a grave concern, the leaders who will come up with substantive agenda and work for bright future. People need good education, quality health, clean water, robust judiciary and good roads, which are symbols of prosperity and progress. Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, with support of Dr. Singh has made around ten Medical Colleges fully functional within a short span of 5 years. There are a number of initiatives including completion of languishing projects in J&K, where Dr Singh played a significant role. This is beyond the comprehension of an ordinary politician. There is always a room to learn the lessons of life from selfless leaders.
Author, former Head PG Department of Physics, teaches Nanotechnology at NIT Srinagar.
