Visakhapatnam: Scientific knowledge needed for wealth creation

Visakhapatnam: Scientific knowledge is more essential for wealth creation of nations today, observed by GITAM Deemed to be University Vice-Chancellor Prof. K. Sivaramakrishna here on Friday. He participated as chief guest in 34th National Science Day celebrations organised by GITAM Institute of Science.

While addressing the gathering, the Vice-Chancellor said that the past few centuries have seen an enormous increase in living standards in many parts of the world and these economies have become more complex than ever before. He mentioned that without a proper foundation in basic sciences, it is very difficult to achieve a sustainable scientific development.

We must lay a strong foundation in basic science which is essential for all research in the applied sciences and long-term support, he added.

Speaking on the national science day 2020 year theme Andhra University Chemistry department senior Professor P. Vani said that women have made important contributions to research and innovation in the country but their potential remains largely untapped particularly though they constitute a good portion of the research workforce, their progress across scientific and technical fields has been uneven.

GITAM Innovation Officer PN Krishna said that research in India is more confined to central research organisations and IITs.

He pointed that the growth in research and development (R&D) expenditure should be commensurate with the economy's growth and should be targeted to reach at least 2 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP). He briefed about the GITAM upcoming research centres.

GITAM Institute of Science Principal Prof.M.Sarathchandra babu presided over the function. The Advanced Centre of Research in High Energy Materials (ACRHEM), University of Hyderabad Director Prof.V.Kameswara Rao, Oncoseek Bio Pvt Limited CEO Dr.Suresh Poosala delivered special lectures during science day celebrations.

Earlier GITAM Vice-Chancellor Prof.K.Sivaramakrishna offered floral tributes at Sir CVRaman statue along with the guests on the eve of National Science Day.