The Prime Minister has called for mobilisation of private investment into Science sector in order to raise the investment in the scientific research to two per cent of the country's GDP. Speaking at a function to mark the 70th Foundation Day of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in New Delhi today, Dr Manmohan Singh asked the Council to take up national leadership in science, engineering and technology. Earlier, Dr Singh, who is also the President of the Council, gave away Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prizes for 2011 and the CSIR young scientists awards for 2012. Lauding the efforts of CSIR, the Prime Minister said it has proven its professional worth in every phase of India's growth in line with prevailing national policies and national priorities. He, however, regretted that the country has not been able to make an impact on a world scale commensurate with its large scientific manpower pool.The Prime Minister complimented CSIR for its unique attempt to make healthcare affordable by exploiting the power of open source drug discovery. He said after India embraced globalization, introduced economic reforms and joined the WTO, the CSIR quickly emerged as the flag bearer of the Intellectual Property movement in the country and became the single largest holder of US and European patents. Stating that he and the Council were both born on this day, Dr Singh said that he can think of no better company than the gathering of men and women of science with whom to have his first public engagement on this very speciail day.
The Minister for Science and Technology, Mr Vayalar Ravi, who also spoke on the occasion, congratulated Dr Singh on his birth day. He also congratulated the wardees saying that the awards will motivate the scientists to enhance their efforts to create newer innovations benefiting the society.