New Delhi: The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Health & Family Welfare, and Earth Sciences Dr. Harsh Vardhan e-inaugurated the curtain raiser programme of CSIR-IMMT, Bhuwaneswar for the 6th India International Science Festival 2020 (IISF-2020) today.
The Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Minister of Steel Dharmendra Pradhan was the Chief Guest at the event. Dr.Shekhar C Mande, DG, CSIR & Secretary, DSIR and Prof .Suddhasatwa BasuDirector, CSIR- IMMT, Bhubaneswar were present on the occasion. The theme of IISF-2020 is “Science for Self-Reliant India and Global Welfare”.
Delivering the inaugural address, Dr Harsha Vardhan said, “The proposed theme of IISF-2020 – Science for Self-Reliant India and Global Welfare is very relevant in the present context when the nation is looking towards science and technology for spearheading growth and for implementing the vision of our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi Ji of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” playing a significant role in the global economy. Many great scientific discoveries and technological advancements in various fields have showcased the excellence of our efforts in science and technology to the world”.
He opined that Mining, Minerals, and Materials are important components of economic India. CSIR-IMMT is part of CSIR family and is continuously working in the direction to lead in the areas of mineral & material resources and solve the R&D problems of mining, mineral, and metals industries and ensure their sustainable development for the nation. “CSIR-IMMT is constantly striving to understand and address technological solutions in Minerals and Materials for a sustainable economy . CSIR-IMMT is working on resourcing of critical minerals, e.g. tungsten, lithium, cobalt, manganese, rare earth elements, etc., for both primary and secondary resources. They are working with the industries to implement these technologies for “AtmaNirbhar Bharat”, the Minister explained.