New Delhi, May 28: Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, stated on Thursday that the next phase of India’s economic expansion will arise from regions and resources that have remained untouched for decades, particularly in the Himalayan region.
Speaking at the National Technology Day event at the Himalayan Bio-Resource Technology Institute (CSIR-IHBT) in Palampur, he emphasized that as the country moves towards the vision of a developed India by 2047, the Himalayan economy is poised to become a significant contributor to the nation’s future economic growth.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, initiatives like the Aroma Mission and the Floriculture Mission have gained unprecedented momentum, creating livelihood opportunities for farmers, women, youth, startups, and entrepreneurs in the Himalayan states and Union Territories.
The minister recalled that the tulip flower from this institute was part of the offering presented by PM Modi during the consecration prayers in Ayodhya.
He toured the institute’s various facilities and engaged with scientists, innovators, farmers, startups, and entrepreneurs involved in various Himalayan technology missions operated by CSIR-IHBT.
Dr. Singh noted that the institute plays a crucial role in transforming Himalayan bio-resources into commercially viable products and technologies for sectors such as medicine, health, nutritional products, cosmetics, floriculture, and agricultural biotechnology.
He described CSIR-IHBT as a unique scientific institution that integrates multiple dimensions of Himalayan biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and commercial innovation, emerging as one of the leading centers for the sustainable use of Himalayan bio-resources in the country.
The institute’s work spans diverse fields, including agricultural technology, biotechnology, environmental science, nutritional technology, phytopharmaceuticals, and fermentation technology.
Highlighting the success of the Aroma Mission, the minister mentioned that Himachal Pradesh has emerged as the leading producer of aromatic wild marigold oil in the country, generating substantial income for farmers and entrepreneurs.
He concluded by stating that under PM Modi’s leadership, scientific institutions are rapidly emerging as tools for grassroots transformation by integrating science, innovation, and entrepreneurship with rural development and economic empowerment.
–
Leave a Comment