Scientific research must be aimed at shaping brighter future for humanity, greener future for planet: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan
The Hindu
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has emphasised the pivotal role of scientific research in shaping both humanity’s future and the world’s environmental sustainability. Inaugurating the 36th Kerala Science Congress, organised by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) in, Vijayan stressed the need for responsible utilisation of scientific advancements.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has emphasised the pivotal role of scientific research in shaping both humanity’s future and the world’s environmental sustainability.
Inaugurating the 36th Kerala Science Congress, organised by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) at Government Arts and Science College, Kasaragod on February 9 (Friday), Mr. Vijayan stressed the need for responsible utilisation of scientific advancements.
Underscoring the duty of citizens to foster scientific curiosity and rational thinking, as outlined in Article 51 of the Constitution, he cautioned against efforts to undermine these principles in favour of religious ideologies devoid of logic. He urged vigilance against such tendencies, particularly among those in positions of Constitutional authority.
Drawing parallels with history, the Chief Minister invoked the plight of Albert Einstein who was forced to flee a Germany entrenched in racism. He warned that scientific progress and the ethos of scientific inquiry cannot flourish in societies marred by hatred and prejudice, emphasising the symbiotic relationship between scientific advancement and social harmony.
Addressing the theme of the Science Congress – ‘Transforming Kerala’s Economy through One Health Approach’ – the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of holistic health considerations encompassing humans, nature, and wildlife.
Given Kerala’s unique demographic and environmental characteristics, including high population density and significant forest cover, Mr. Vijayan outlined the State’s proactive stance in combating infectious diseases through the implementation of the One Health Policy.
Acknowledging the need to balance scientific pursuits with ethical considerations, the Chief Minister cautioned against the commercialisation of research at the expense of humanity. He cited the example of American virologist and biomedical scientist Jonas Salk, polio vaccine inventor, who prioritised public welfare over profit.
Political economist Parakala Prabhakar has described the exit poll results as “fudged figures”, saying that those would benefit the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) only. “False predictions were given with the sole objective of helping the NDA in rigging during the counting,” alleged Mr. Prabhakar, after releasing a book titled ‘Avineeti Chakravarthi Narendra Modi’ penned by former Minister Vadde Shobanadreeswara Rao, here, on June 2 (Sunday).