Science And Survival

The society should have a reason to support science in the country and it is important for us to demonstrate by performance the effective role of science in improving the conditions and standards of living. In such planning, we must consider the various possible development alternatives and adopt such policies and programmes as would promote sustainable development. Instead of following beaten paths defined elsewhere, the Indian situation has to be a prime guiding force. Such a unique Indian approach to development is necessary to reduce unemployment and ensure social justice. Focused research and development, proper institutional mechanisms as well as planned extension and diffusion activities would be required to solve many of the pressing problems mentioned earlier. With well-directed efforts, it may indeed be possible to improve the overall quality of life of our people, without necessarily increasing the GDP to a substantial extent.