Shillong (Meghalaya), Jan. 3 : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has urged the scientific industry of the nation to invest more in research and development to encourage more young and talented scientists.

"The best science is done by young people. Our institutions must be receptive to the needs of the young people. They must promote younger talent and allow youth to lead," Dr. Singh said inaugurating the 96th Indian Science Congress at the North Eastern Hill University campus in Shillong on Saturday.

"Seniority and age may be relevant in the bureaucratic system, but intellectual leaders, irrespective of age, must lead scientific institutions" he said.

Dr. Singh said the government was doing its best to set-up good science institutions across the country. But only a great demand for young researchers and scientists from the institutions and the industry can stimulate young scientists.

"The government is doing its bit to ensure quantitative development, the leadership for qualitative development must come from the scientific community," he said.

"India is lagging behind not just developed western nations, but also the newly industrialising economies of Asia. Our universities must do more to foster a research environment," the Prime Minister said. (ANI)