New Delhi, January 16: Union science, technology & environment Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has said that the Earth Sciences Ministry should be renamed as Bharat Mata Mantralaya (Motherland India Ministry). Speaking at the 144th Foundation Day of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Minister Harsh Vardhan said that there is no harm in calling the ministry as Bharat Mata Mantralaya. Must Use Cultural Tradition, Modern Tech to Fight Climate Change: Harsh Vardhan.

Explaining his rationale behind the idea of renaming the ministry, Harsh Vardhan said that the scientists are working to protect mother earth which is "Bharat Mata for us." He also said that isme koi sochne ki baat nahi hai (there is nothing to think about it (the decision to rename the ministry). Outcome of UN Climate Summit Should Be Balanced, Inclusive: Harsh Vardhan.

The minister kept referring to the Earth Sciences Ministry as Bharat Mata Ministry throughout his speech during the event.

Dr Harsh Vardhan has emphasised the role that Indian knowledge and traditions can play in fighting global phenomenon like climate change. He had said that it was "crucial" to find ways to combat the issue with the "wisdom of collective cultural tradition" apart from modern technologies, in order to fight global warming and climate change.

The minister had in an earlier event called for more investments in research from the private sector and said India could leapfrog to top two-three “scientific nations” in the world in terms of scientific advancements. There has been increased science research activities in the country in the past few years with both government and private organisations chipping in, affirmed the minister. “There is need for more investments in research from private sector. It will add to the research outcome in the country,” he said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 16, 2019 10:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).