Speaking at the dedication ceremony of the Centenary Faculty Block at the National Institute of Advanced Study (NIAS) on Sunday, he said, “Increasingly universities have parted with R&D activities, even within universities, academics pursuits are rigidly delineated within specific departments. As a result, the intellectual output of our universities leaves much to be desired”.

He added that earlier when inter-disciplinary studies was practiced there was “cross-pollination of ideas” and such inter-disciplinary approach is critical to the advancement of knowledge.

NIAS is an oasis against such bleak backdrop and the books, reports, working papers published by it bear testimony to the scope of work being done and are perhaps unique for an Indian academic institution, he said.

“ The study under the same roof of archaeometallurgy with primatology, sociology and anthropology with nuclear and strategic issues, philosophy with astrophysics and aeronautics, rural development and gender issues, philosophy and number theory makes for new and fascinating outcomes,” he said.

Governor Rameshwar Thakur said that high quality research in institutes requires investment both in terms of the facilities required as well as in terms of attracting the best talent, and keeping in mind the interest of the industry it should ensure that it does not run into knowledge barriers when it pursues its own goals.

Fund

The Centenary Faculty Block, which is being dedicated to nation by Mr Ansari is funded largely by the Tata Social Welfare Trust, it houses 26 faculty members and 22 students.