Turning science into services must be a priority: Ministry of Education, Science and Culture Secretary Srinivasa Kumar

Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) Secretary T. Srinivasa Kumar emphasized the need to transform scientific advances into public services. “Transforming science into services should be a priority,” he said, stressing that economic development must remain environmentally sustainable.

Highlighting India’s achievements in ocean forecasting and technology development, he said the ‘Bharat Forecast System’ has greatly improved ocean-related services, particularly benefiting fishing communities by helping to increase catches by two to four times through more accurate forecasts.

While attending the Academy of Science, Technology and Communication (ASTC) Annual Convention 2026 and Special Scientific Session on ‘Earth Sciences, Strategic Resources and Advanced Technologies for India’s Future’ at CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI) here on Friday, he also emphasized that economic growth must go hand in hand with environmental sustainability.

Former MES Secretary M. Ravichandran called for greater interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure sustainable use of Earth’s resources. He emphasized the growing importance of data-driven research, noting that “data is king” and noting that wider access to reliable data can accelerate scientific innovation and technological progress.

Welcoming the participants, CSIR-NGRI Director Prakash Kumar emphasized the need for scientific collaboration and advanced earth science technologies to address new national priorities and enhance resource security in the country.

At the congress, the main lectures of the Vice-Chancellor of the National Institute Homi Bhabha Dr. U. Kamachi Mudali on India’s Heavy Water Program and Technological Self-Reliance and Midhani CMD SVS Narayan Murthy on Securing Critical Mineral Resources Using Indigenous Technologies to Support the Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision.

A pamphlet on geothermal energy and public awareness pamphlets on eye health and chronic kidney disease were released on the occasion. ASTC Scientific Council Chairman Ch. Mohan Rao also spoke, a press release said.

Published – 30 Oct 2026 20:49 IST