Accept challenge to develop low cost medicines: Modi to scientists

Ahmedabad, Mar 31 (UNI) Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today called upon researchers and scientists to accept the challenge to develop low cost life saving medicines so that the poor could afford them.

Addressing the Centenary function of Alembic Pharmaceutical Company, Mr Modi said that pharma houses, government and the research community should come together and chalk out a successful strategy to take the challenge to develop low cost life saving drugs for the poor.

The Chief Minister spoke about the emerging NIPER Bio-Tech Park in the vicinity of Gandhinagar and Bio-Tech Park near Vadodara. Gujarat has taken giant strides in industry and economy, the Bio-Tech Parks are going to be the potential contributor to the nation, he said.

He dwelt upon the educational and research facilities available in Gujarat with the emergence of the NIPER.

Former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, who was also present on the occasion, elaborated on the Vision-2020 for India and expressed confidence that the Pharma sector would scale brilliant heights in the field of research.

Dr Kalam advised the scientists and researchers to find out ways to realise the vision of healthy lifestyles and invent life saving drugs. He inspired the researchers to develop cost effective medicines at affordable prices. He said that advent of Biotechnology built new confidence to control cancer, malaria and heart related ailments.

Expressing confidence, he said that through proactive co-operation of the state government, the pharma industries of Gujarat would realise the goals set in Vision 2020. He asked the scientific and research community to take maximum benefit of the bio-diversity and rich natural resources available in the country.

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