“The Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (STIP) -2020 has been drafted to form a nurtured ecosystem that promotes research and innovation on the path of both individuals and organisations. In order to create an inclusive culture in the practice of science, equal opportunity in academics and research should be provided to women”, Prof Rohini Godbole said.
Padma Shri Prof Godbole, honorary Professor, Centre of Higher Energy Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru was speaking as the chief guest during CSIR-NEERI Foundation Day programme at NEERI. Padma Shri Prof Amitav Mallik, Defence technologist and Green Tech Advisor and a former member of National Security Advisory Board was the guest of honour. NEERI Director Dr Atul Vaidya and Senior Principal Scientist Dr Prakash Kumbhare were present on the dais.
She pointed out that diversity, inclusion and equity are not only for the people who are excluded, but these are also required for the development of Science, Technology and Innovation. She hoped that the STIP-2020 will provide access to the grass root innovators for converting innovations into products. Prof. Godbole said that women are keepers of traditional knowledge which can lead to significant innovations. She advocated that CSIR should work more to encourage young women entrepreneurs.
Speaking on ‘India at 75 – Energy and Environment Challenges’, Prof Mallik said that India needs to promote sustainable energy policies that spur economic growth and environmental protection, particularly in terms of reducing greenhouse-gas emissions that contribute to climate change. He urged the scientists to participate in Science and Technology Development activities even after their retirement. He briefed about the initiatives taken by Pune International Centre under his leadership to combat the challenges of energy, environment and climate change. We need specific and concrete policy pathways for deep decarbonisation in India which should work at the corporation and gram panchayat level, he added.
In his welcome address, Dr. Atul Vaidya, Director, CSIR-NEERI informed that CSIR has formulated a 10-point programme on its 81st Foundation Day for the revitalization of CSIR. Industrial application, techno-feasibility, societal benefits are some of the important features of this programme.
Dr Shalini Dhyani, Sr. Scientist, CSIR-NEERI conducted the proceedings. CSIR-NEERI launched the SAFRA and WDS portals for data management to ensure a safe drinking water system. ‘Handbook on Water and Wastewater Analysis’ was also released on this occasion. The staff members of CSIR-NEERI, who had completed 25 years of service, and those who had retired during the current and preceding years, were honoured on the occasion.
Science Models Competition was organized and prizes were given away to the winners.
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