GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2959
TO BE ANSWERED ON 30/07/2009

SCIENTIFIC TEMPERAMENT

2959. SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI:

Will the Minister of SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is taking any steps for emphasizing the need for inculcating a scientific temperament among the youth for creating a better tomorrow especially for SC/ ST people;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES, MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

(a) to (c): Yes, Sir. The Government has implemented several initiatives for inculcating scientific temperament among the youth, including SC/ ST communities. Countrywide science communication campaigns, exhibitions and competitions, folk forms, radio and television programmes are creatively utilized to reduce the impact of myths and superstitions and encourage rational approach amongst masses. Issues of water, sanitation and hygiene form the core of annual campaigns in selected areas. Community radio has been harnessed to address needs of SC/ ST groups with special programmes in about 20 locations.