President Pranab Mukherjee has called for vibrant interface between higher education institutes and the industry to pursue basic research and have innovative excellence. Mr Mukherjee said this after formally throwing open centenary celebrations of the Osmania University in Hyderabad today. <br/><br/>Addressing a gathering at the University, he said the country is lagging far behind in basic research. He urged the higher education institutions to focus on research, innovation and interaction with the society. The President said, economic advancement can be possible only when the country excels in innovation and research. He said, the industry should come forward to take up special research projects.