PM reviews space, nuke energy programmes

New Delhi, Oct 18 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh reviewed India's space and nuclear programmes, including the three-stage nuclear programme and the possibility of a manned space progamme, at a meeting with Space Commission Chairman G Madhavan Nair and Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Anil Kakodkar.

Among the programmes that were reviewed in the meeting yesterday were the upcoming launch missions, a profile of missions proposed up to 2013, the project for development of a regional navigational system, as well as futuristic plans covering air-breathing propulsion systems, heavy lift launches and advanced communication technologies.

The two scientists made detailed presentations on the programmes of their respective commissions, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said today.

The presentation on nuclear power focused on the scenario for its development, cost effectiveness and environmental sustainability of nuclear power, three-stage nuclear programme and the approach of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

The DAE has adopted an integrated approach encompassing research and development to operations with emphasis on human resource development. Advanced technologies under development for meeting India's energy needs were also explained.

The Prime Minister underlined the imperative to offer attractive career incentives for scientists in the space and atomic energy programmes, the PMO said.

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