Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences; and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, emphasized India’s growing leadership on the global stage during the 8th Convocation of the Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR). Highlighting achievements under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Dr. Singh cited advancements in the space sector, biotechnology breakthroughs, and the CSIR Purple Revolution as key examples of India’s progress.
Dr. Singh conferred Doctor of Science degrees on four eminent scientists for their exceptional contributions to science and technology:
- Dr. Raghunath A. Mashelkar, celebrated for his pioneering work in polymer science and engineering.
- Prof. Samir K. Brahmachari, recognized for groundbreaking research in genomics, particularly the role of repetitive DNA in health and disease.
- Prof. Suresh Bhargava, honored for his contributions to chemical sciences and engineering.
- Dr. Thirumalachari Ramasami, lauded for his innovative research in chromium chemistry.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Singh highlighted AcSIR’s transformative role in fostering interdisciplinary research, strengthening industry-academia collaboration, and contributing to India’s ascent in global science rankings. He called AcSIR’s unique academic approach a cornerstone in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047”.
He praised AcSIR for ranking in the top 3% of global universities despite being relatively young. The institution’s innovative curriculum integrates diverse fields like engineering, biosciences, and information sciences with emerging areas such as medical research and agriculture. Dr. Singh described AcSIR as a trailblazer in academia, with partnerships across 82 institutions, including CSIR, ICMR, and DST.
A notable highlight was AcSIR’s contribution to India’s startup ecosystem through its Integrated PhD (iPhD) program, which bridges innovation, imagination, and industry. Dr. Singh linked this initiative to India’s rise in the Global Innovation Index, where the country climbed from 81st to 40th position under the Modi government.
Dr. Singh also celebrated the growing prominence of women in science, referencing the historic appointment of CSIR’s first woman Director General. He underscored the significance of NEP 2020 in transforming Indian education, noting AcSIR’s flexible academic framework that enables unconventional combinations like biotechnology and economics.
Reflecting on India’s advancements, Dr. Singh highlighted the rapid growth of space startups from single digits to over 300 and the rise of biotechnology ventures to nearly 9,000, both contributing significantly to the economy. He emphasized that India is no longer a follower but a global leader in technological innovation.
The event also showcased AcSIR’s international collaborations with institutions like the University of Western Australia and AIST Japan, which underscore the global competitiveness of Indian science and education. Dr. Singh affirmed that institutions like AcSIR are integral to India’s mission of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence, propelling the nation toward its goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
Eminent dignitaries in attendance included Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India; Prof. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR; Prof. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR; and Prof. P. Balaram, Chancellor of AcSIR, who presided over the ceremony. The convocation symbolized India’s growing scientific prowess and commitment to building a knowledge-driven economy.
