India’s Vice-President Mohammed Hamid Ansari announced that it is very essential that more young people are drawn into research for better prospects as the value and size of scientific research is slumping because of insufficient facilities, funds and lack of capable teachers.

Mr. Ansari made this announcement while lecturing at the centenary year celebrations of Indian Institute of Science (IISc), on Sunday.

He said, “Scientists can no longer be indifferent to social and political questions. They alone have the power as they are above suspicion.”

Basic research in science, engineering and medicine is vital for proper growth.

Ansari emphasized on making compulsory equipment as well as facilities available at educational institutions.

He also stressed on developing better career alternatives for young researchers.

He also pointed out the need for creating role models.

While commenting on the vacant posts in universities across the country, he said that high level of vacancies in universities is a major problem.

Noting a UGC survey of 47 universities, Ansari said that for the academic year 2007-08, the overall vacancy levels are as high as 51%.

“Capacity building is the need of the hour. Only then can technological advancement be sustained,” he added.

He also said that scientists’ social responsibility must be posited within a framework.

“Should scientists work in a moral vacuum or rather be citizen-scientists?” he queried.

Moreover, Karnataka Post Dept released two commemorative stamps on IISc, valued Rs 5 and Rs 20.

Governor Rameshwar Thakur urged scientists to inspect issues of energy, urbanization and transportation.