“Scientific spirit is the fuel for India’s growth”: Governor

Bengaluru Express
Doddaballapur, Oct. 10: “India’s knowledge and science, combined with technological advancement, are working for the welfare of humanity in the true spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’ The confluence of our ancient wisdom and modern innovations is propelling India towards becoming a world leader in science,” said Thaawarchand Gehlot, Governor of Karnataka.

He was addressing the gathering after participating in the prize distribution ceremony of the first State-level Telescope Training Camp–2025, organized under the “I am a Scientist” programme.

The Hon’ble Governor highlighted India’s glorious scientific heritage, noting that “from Aryabhata, Bhaskaracharya, Brahmagupta and Varahamihira to Charaka and Sushruta, India has contributed immensely to mathematics, astronomy, physics and medicine. Theories of zero, the decimal system, planetary motion and the rotation of the Earth originated in India. The Iron Pillar of Delhi continues to stand as a symbol of our ancient metallurgical excellence.”

Tracing India’s post-independence scientific journey, Shri Gehlot observed that the vision of pioneers like Dr. Homi Bhabha and Dr. Vikram Sarabhai laid the foundation for India’s atomic energy and space programmes. “The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has made the nation proud with missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan. With Chandrayaan-3, India became the first country to successfully land on the Moon’s south pole. Our achievements in information technology, biotechnology, and medicine are also globally recognized. During the COVID-19 pandemic, India showcased its scientific strength by developing indigenous vaccines such as Covaxin and Covishield,” he said.

Quoting Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Shri Gehlot reminded that “science is a beautiful gift to humanity; we should not distort it.” He added that when science is guided by compassion and creativity, it becomes a powerful force to build a developed, strong, and self-reliant India.

Expressing his appreciation for the young participants, the Governor said, “It is inspiring to see more than 160 students from Karnataka create their own telescopes during this nine-day camp. Their achievement, recognized by the Asia Book of Records, World Book of Records, and India Book of Records, is truly commendable. These telescopes represent not only a glimpse into the stars but also the dreams and aspirations of a confident new generation.”

He also commended the efforts of the Karnataka State Science Council and its President Shri Hulikal Nataraj, for their role in promoting scientific learning beyond textbooks. “Their initiatives are nurturing a generation that thinks critically, questions intelligently, and innovates fearlessly,” he said.

Referring to the vision of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Governor emphasized the importance of developing a scientific mindset and fostering Atmanirbhar Bharat — a self-reliant India rooted in knowledge, science, innovation, and self-confidence. He urged the youth to actively engage with scientific programmes and contribute to the nation’s progress.

The event was attended by Justice Nagamohan Das (Retd.), MLA Shri Dheeraj Muniraj, Dr. A.S. Kiran Kumar, former Chairman of ISRO, and several other dignitaries.