President poses queries

Seeks cure from medical community for H1N1 influenza outbreak

Can there be a scientific mechanism devised for securing technology and making it “burglar” proof to prevent misuse?

What can be the contribution of science and technology to fight terrorism? Can researchers look at possibilities of alcohol and drug de-addiction through safe pharmaceuticals or technical devices?

President Prathiba Patil had several “open thoughts” to scientists in her valedictory address at the closing ceremony of the year-long centenary celebrations of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore on Friday.

Speaking after unveiling a plaque to mark the re-dedication of IISc to the nation for advancement of science and technology, the president gave a clarion call for the scientific community to find solution to the complex challenges facing the nation including climate change, water shortage and emergence of new diseases.

Patil said special attention was required in preventing misuse of technology especially by terrorists. While legal system and awareness play a part in securing technology and preventing its misuse, the role of science and technology to fight terrorism too need to be explored, she said.

She said the nation should invest more energy and resources in innovation to ensure a competitive edge in diverse fields. She said youth need to be encouraged to pursue science disciplines to make India a developed country and a “superpower leading in scientific and technology innovations beneficial to humankind”.

H1N1 influenza outbreak

The H1N1 influenza outbreak also figured in the President’s speech with the first lady calling upon the medical community to find timely antidotes and vaccines to combat new diseases. National healthcare systems also need to respond rapidly to such infections, she said.

She had special words for women scientists. “They (women scientists) should be helped to develop their talents and to undertake research work. A congenial atmosphere for women scientists at work place needs to be provided as also family support extended to them. This is because they have a dual role - professionals at work and mothers at home,” Patil said.

Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa reiterated that the government was ready to hand over 1,000 acre in Chitradurga to IISc for establishing its second campus in the state. He said government will set up centres of excellence to provide science education in different parts of the state with the help of IISc.

While the valedictory ceremony was held on Friday, the IISc centenary celebrations will officially culminate on May 27. The date is significant as it was on this day in 1909 that the constitution of the Institute was approved by the Viceroy Lord Minto and the necessary Vesting Order signed. IISc Director P Balaram said a special function will be held on that day.

The year-long celebrations witnessed visits by Vice-President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and former President APJ Abdul Kalam. A centenary conference held in December last year was attended by more than 2,000 alumni of the institute from across the globe.