Former Isro chief seeks more funds for science

Pune: Spending on science and technology must rise to 2% of the gross domestic product from the current 0.8% to usher in transformation in the field, former chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) K Kasturirangan said.
"Of this, 1% should come from the government, and 1% from the private sector or public-private partnership. We need to enhance socially relevant programmes like energy, education, health, agriculture so that they add to the field.We need to increase provision of research grants under the university system and bring in private sector investment in the areas of their interest, increase the number of full-time research workers and create new infrastructure. We should aim for long-term planning," he added.
He was at the Automotive Research Association of India for its 50th year celebrations. The scientist, who has all three Padma awards to his credit, said there is need to expand inter-university centres to the automobile sector.
Kasturirangan, who was a member of the planning commission, said India is on its way to becoming the third largest economy after the US and China in 10-15 years.
"I have worked in the Planning Commission and I can say that these calculations are based on sound logic and projections," he added.
Kasturirangan said the country has come a long way in its space journey. Referring to the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) programmes, the 75-year-old scientist, said, "These were extremely critical for the country's autonomy in space which helped us put satellites into space independently. Now, over a 100 satellites have been launched using Indian rockets and from Indian soil."