Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Indian Science Congress 2015 at Mumbai University today. Speaking on this occasion, Mr Modi said the arms of technology and scientific innovations should reach the poorest of the poor. He said that though science is universal but technology is local and we should develop affordable and sustainable technologies for the betterment of our people. He stressed on enhanced researches in the field of Bio-technology, Nano Science, agriculture, clean energy, medicine and clinical researches. Mr Modi said ease of doing research is as important as ease of doing business.

The theme of this 5-day mega event is “Science and Technology for Human Development.” Stressing and lauding the contribution of science and technology in every field of human development, Prime Minister said digital connectivity should become as much a basic right as access to school. The Prime Minister emphasized that science if used properly can bring in development otherwise it could be disastrous. Paying tribute to the eminent researcher and Padmashree recipient Dr. Vasant Gowarikar, who passed away in Pune Friday evening, the Prime Minister said his contribution to space; population and weather research is immense. He praised ISRO for Mangalyaan and the accurate prediction of cyclone HUDHUD that saved many lives on coastal India.

Mr. Modi later presented medals honouring the Nobel laureates from across world attending the Indian Science Congress 2015.

Governor of Maharashtra, Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis, Union Minister for Science and Technology Harshvardhan and Mumbai University VC Dr. Rajan Welukar were present on the occasion.

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Indian Institute of Technology and Tata Memorial Centre besides ISRO and DRDO are actively taking part to make the event a success and popularize science.