Jaipur, May 11 (IANS) Emphasising the need to harness science and technology for building a prosperous and healthy society, Governor Haribhau Bagde called upon the Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute in Jaipur to take the lead in developing instruments capable of testing food grains and vegetables for pesticides, chemicals, and other harmful contaminants.
The Governor said there is an urgent need, in the present, for equipment that can accurately detect the levels of toxicity in the food people consume. Alongside advancements in modern science and technology, he stressed the importance of reconnecting with India’s rich knowledge traditions.
Bagde remarked that India has possessed a deep scientific heritage since ancient times and has contributed foundational discoveries and principles to fields such as astronomy, mathematics, metallurgy, Ayurveda, and architecture.
He was addressing a programme organised jointly by Vigyan Bharati and the Jaipur office of the Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute on Monday on the occasion of National Technology Day.
The Governor also highlighted the importance of technological innovations for detecting food and beverage adulteration and supporting efforts to curb substance abuse.
Referring to India’s discovery of the concept of ‘Zero’ and the computational knowledge that emerged from it, Bagde said the enduring pigments used in the Ajanta cave paintings remain evidence of India’s advanced understanding of ancient colour technology.
He also mentioned the traditional ‘Hansa Test’ used to identify water adulteration in milk, describing it as an example of indigenous scientific observation rooted in ornithology.
Quoting Maharishi Aurobindo, the Governor emphasised the need to enhance the intellectual capabilities of the younger generation. He stated that scientific progress alone is not sufficient unless accompanied by moral values and commitment.
Alongside technological development, he said, equal attention must be given to character building.
Bagde further noted that India had developed expertise in metallurgy during a period when many other nations had little or no knowledge of the field.
Referring to the tradition of gold engraving on ancient idols, he remarked that when Lord Dalhousie visited India, he reportedly took back 17 shiploads of gold.
Earlier, the Governor unveiled the souvenir for the “Rajasthan Science Festival 2026” and released its official poster. He also inspected equipment developed at the Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute laboratory.
On the occasion, Vijnana Bharati Secretary Meghendra Sharma spoke about several scientific achievements and highlighted the organisation’s efforts towards environmental conservation.
He stated that Vijnana Bharati has not only planted saplings in the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation industrial area but is also actively engaged in their preservation.
He added that the organisation is continuously working to connect the general public with science related to environmental protection.
Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute Director P.C. Panchariya also addressed the gathering and highlighted the significance of National Technology Day and the event.
–IANS
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