Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, highlighted that India would play a major role in making COVID-19 vaccines accessible economically to the world at the sixth edition of the India International Science Festival IISF 2020.
“This year has been the year of science due to COVID-19 and science, technology and innovation has become a crucial part of life not only in the developing countries but also in the developed countries,” he said at the ‘Science Diplomacy Conclave’ of IISF 2020 which was organized virtually. He praised the scientists for playing a crucial role in fighting against the pandemic.
“Scientific collaborations have become the order of the day worldwide, and major global collaborations were set up this year to fight the pandemic. Research efforts have increased worldwide, and more countries are delving deep in the field of science, technology, and innovation,” Dr. Harsh Vardhan added.
“India is now acknowledged as a significant player globally in the field of science, technology, and innovation and has partnered with more than 50 countries. Science, technology, and innovation is going to be key in setting agenda in trade and economy, and science diplomacy would play bigger role in the future”, the Union Minister elaborated, lauding the efforts of IISF in starting Science Diplomacy Conclave.
He said that science diplomacy has been an integral part of India’s foreign policy. In the 21st century, science has become the fundamental tool for making a better world, and it could not have been possible without science diplomacy. “India is committed to help its neighbours, and other countries in the field of science, technology and innovation through capacity building programmes and technological exchange and science diplomacy plays a great role in it,” Dr Harsh Vardhan pointed out.
The two-day event aims to congregate top-notch professionals and experts to introduce the attendees to some of the cutting-edge progress that highlights India’s successes and future course of action on diplomatic use of science and technology in the Industry 4.0 Era.
