Kabil Sibal inaugurates Indo-German Science and Technology Centre

New Delhi, Sept 9 : Union Minister for Science and Technology Kapil Sibal along with his counterpart Dr. Annette Schavan, Federal Minister of Education and Research inaugurated the Indo-German Science and Technology Centre, here today.

The Centre was announced during the visit of Prime Minister to Germany in April 2008 and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for setting up of the Centre was signed by Sibal and Dr. Schavan in October 2007 during the visit of German Chancellor to India.

The Centre will provide links to research, academia and Industry and support flagship projects between India and Germany in the areas of common interest. Both governments have committed to contribute each two million euros each year initial for five years.

Earlier, Sibal and Dr. Schavan inaugurated the campaign "India and Germany- Strategic Partners in Innovation".

While inaugurating the campaign, Sibal stressed to put more emphasis on application of science in developing sustainable solutions for betterment of society.

Both Ministers reiterated their commitment for developing Indo-German Strategic partnership in Science and Technology. During the occasion, a joint declaration on "Science for Sustainability" was signed by Sibal and Dr. Schavan to develop a full fledge Indo-German programme in the areas of science for sustainability, clean technologies, environmental technologies, energy security, civil security research, coal and water technologies.

Another joint intent for exchange of school children between India and Germany was also concluded in the presence of both Science Ministers.

This intent envisages exchange of school children and teachers between India and Germany for Zulab programmes of Germany and National Children Science Congress of India; and setting up of "Youlabs" on lines with Zulab in India.

Dr. Schavan is on an official visit to India during 8-9 September 2008. On 8th September, he was guest of honor for the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras Chennai.

IITM Chennai was setup in late 50's with German assistance.

A MoU between IITM Chennai and German Academic Exchange Service (DDAD) was concluded in the presence of Sibal and Dr. Schavan.

The MoU envisages setting up of Centre for studies in Sustainable Development at IITM Chennai.

Sibal along with Dr. Schavan also inaugurated National Centre for Catalysis Research during the function at IITM Chennai.

ANI