JORHAT, Nov 15 � After a daylong visit to the North East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST) here today, Union Science and Technology Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said his government is ready to provide all necessary help to expedite scientific research in the effects of climate change on the biodiversity of the north-east.
During his visit to NEIST laboratories, Dr Vardhan showed keen interest in drugs developed by NEIST to fight arthritis and fungus. He stressed development of anti-lung cancer drugs, for which research has been initiated by the institute.
In an interaction with reporters at the institute he said the nationwide network of laboratories under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) would need to give solutions to improve the standards of living for the local communities.
�I am here to convey the Prime Minister�s message that we want a strong and developed India. We will provide necessary help for research by the scientists here,� said Dr Vardhan. However, when asked about any specific new plan for promoting the campaign for popularising science and technology in the State, the minister said he has no such details now.
During a discussion with NEIST scientists he laid stress on the medical use of medicinal and aromatic plants found in the region. �The north-east is India�s greatest resource of biodiversity. It is a treasure house of genetic resources, groundwater and many others. I have instructed NEIST to develop programes for their safeguarding� said Dr Vardhan.
Scientists from various departments including biotechnology, material sciences and chemical science laboratories, drug processing unit and GSI station briefed him on their activities during the visit.
