Scientific utilisation of natural resources imperative

Bhopal, Nov 24 (UNI) Scientific utilisation of natural resources realising the entire universe as one unit is imperative to avoid its complete exhaustion.

The conclusion was drawn at 'Manthan,' the first technical session of the Indian Science Conference at the conference hall of 'Aryabhattapuram' on the premises of Ravindra Bhawan here yesterday.

It was pointed out that resources are meant for everyone and must be utilised in a manner that it sustain even while being used.

Traditional wisdom must be married with modern knowledge to pave the path of human development.

The 'Manthan' session stressed on the need for increasing the use of Hindi and other Indian languages and addressing problems at local levels.

Planning Commission member V L Chopra was the chief guest of the inaugural session, while Vigyan Bharti Chairman K I Basu presided over the session, according to an official release.

Noted biotechnologist Manju Sharma, architect of super computer Vijay Bhatkar, Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology Director General Mahesh Sharma and Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalay vice-chancellor P B Sharma were among those who delivered lectures on the subject 'Integrated scientific management of natural resources for sustainable development'.

Mr Chopra said soil, bio-diversity, water and human resources should be preserved and tapped through skillful management so that their balance was not disturbed.

He lamented that proper attention was not being given to the health of soil in the country. Wanton use of unwanted and harmful chemicals has affected its health very adversely. He stressed that planners, intellectuals, farmers, scientists and all concerned must give top priority to maintain the health of soil.

Mr Chopra pointed out that every section of society wasted water though its need was increasing in agriculture, industry and other sectors thereby putting both ground and underground water levels under tremendous pressure.

Creator of Super Computer and famous scientist Vijay Bhatkar said preservation of resources was possible if the entire universe was considered as a single unit. Humanity's progress can happen through coordination of self-knowledge and scientific knowledge.

Famous biotechnologist Manju Sharma said biotechnology could help immensely in developing Madhya Pradesh and India in the 21st century.

Noting that IT sector (Information Technology) was recognised as India's Today, she observed that BT (Bio Technology) was the Bharat Tomorrow.

MAPCOST Director General Mahesh Sharma said conclusions drawn here can form the basis of India's Science Policy.

Mr Basu and other scientists also addressed the conference, the release added.

UNI