Mingle with society, scientists told

Scientists should get out of their ivory tower and mingle with people so as to create confidence in them about their research, former Union minister Jairam Ramesh said in his lecture “Responsible to Science, Responsive to Society: A New Dialogue” at the National Institute of Advanced Studies on Friday. 

He said that from the time of the first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, scientists have occupied prominent positions. Despite their enormous knowledge and experience, scientists hardly took part in democratic processes. Scientists should develop patience to listen to suggestions from common man and communicate with the society. He blamed the lack of proper rehabilitation for the increasing public opposition to development projects.