Hyderabad: The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, reiterated the indispensable role of Research and Development (R&D) as the backbone of both the economy and the nation. Speaking at the Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad, he underscored the paramount importance of innovation in medicine development, emphasizing that R&D endeavors transcend mere execution, representing the highest form of contribution to humanity.
“Our pursuit to serve humanity through science and research should not be deterred by temporary setbacks,” Dhankhar affirmed, highlighting India’s significant contribution to international vaccine efforts, including the donation of Covaxin through the vaccine Matri initiative. This, he stated, reflects India’s longstanding commitment to the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” where the world is seen as one family.
Dhankhar further emphasized the need for corporate leaders to support institutions in promoting research and development to foster innovation, with a specific focus on disruptive technologies.
Lauding the heightened credibility of Padma Awards in recent times, the Vice-President asserted that they are now conferred upon deserving individuals without influence from patronage or reputation built by event management.
Turning to economic concerns, Dhankhar raised alarm over the significant drain of foreign exchange due to unnecessary imports, calling it contradictory to promoting local products and societal commitment. He warned against the avoidable depletion of foreign exchange reserves, hindrance to domestic manufacturing, and suppression of entrepreneurial opportunities resulting from this practice.
Highlighting the strength derived from large alumni bases in leading institutions worldwide, Shri Dhankhar urged alumni to form a robust network through think tanks, contributing to the nation’s growth and development.
Advocating for the regulated channelization of disruptive technologies, the Vice-President underscored their transformative potential while cautioning against their unregulated proliferation.
He concluded by reaffirming India’s unwavering dedication to biotechnology and pharmaceutical research, affirming its reputation as the “pharmacy of the world.” With confidence in India’s future, he emphasized its transformation from a sleeping giant to a fast-moving force.
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