Guwahati, Sept 22: The science and technology fraternity of Assam has lauded the central government’s move to unveil a new set of national awards in the field of science, technology and innovation.
Notably, the “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar”, as the new honour has been christened, will be conferred every year with an objective to recognise the notable and inspiring contributions of scientists, technologists and innovators individually or in teams in various fields of science, technology and technology-led innovation.
Joyanti Chutia, former director, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) and Emeritus Professor, while lauding the initiative, said it was very encouraging to know that Government of India has initiated to establish the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar to recognise and inspire the scientists and technologists and innovators in various fields.
She also said that the technologies based on scientific research have immense influence on society.
Welcoming the decision of the central government, Parameswar K. Iyer, officiating director, IIT Guwahati said that in recent years India’s remarkable growth in research, development and innovation has placed the country at the forefront of creating globally-recognised technologies that advance scientific knowledge worldwide.
Iyer also said that the newly-introduced awards again reinforce the idea that excellence in scientific research and innovation was highly commendable and also an integral part of our nation’s growth and development.
“I am confident that this initiative will serve as a platform for acknowledging the outstanding contributions of researchers and innovators, allowing them to reach their full potential and set new benchmarks for discoveries,” he added.
Iyer further said that with the significant milestone, this award would not only honour achievements but also ignite a spirit of innovation within the research community, inspiring members of the community to set new standards in technological advancements for the betterment of humanity.
The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar shall be one of the highest recognitions in the field of science, technology, and innovation in India. Scientists, technologists, innovators working in government, private sector organisations or any individual working outside any organisation, who have made distinguished contributions in terms of path-breaking research or innovation or discovery in any field of science, technology, or technology-led innovation shall be eligible for the awards.
People of Indian origin staying abroad with exceptional contributions benefitting the Indian communities or society shall also be eligible for the awards.
According to an official statement issued on Thursday, the nominations for this bouquet of awards will be invited every year on January 14, which would remain open till February 28 (National Science Day) every year.
These awards shall be announced on May 11 (National Technology Day) every year. The award ceremony for all categories of awards will be held on August 23 (National Space Day).