NEW DELHI: Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government R. Chidambaram on Thursday asked the 2004 batch of the Indian Police Service probationers to maintain dignity and decency in their conduct. He expressed concern over police high-handedness in mercilessly beating up young couples in Meerut recently.

"Please prevent incidents like Meerut, which I watched on television, from taking place. This should have never happened. What else can I say? Prevent such incidents at any cost," the nuclear physicist said here. He was delivering the 18th Intelligence Bureau Centenary Endowment lecture.

The IPS probationers must also keep their idealism alive. "When you join the IPS, you have certain ideals and want to serve India. Do not let that idealism die; retain it. You have come to do something for India, let that spirit remain with you."

Dr. Chidambaram also advised them to be aware of developments in technology and make use of existing science and technology systems.

In reply to a query, he said the students refrained from taking up science stream in school. The government would look at offering five-year integrated courses in science to young talented students after completion of their school education.

The national security scenario had undergone enormous change. The definition would include the general well being of citizens, food, energy, water and environment security. A "coherent synergy" among various government departments, Ministries and agencies was necessary to ensure development with security, as both had become seamless.

On the country's technology and energy needs, he said dependence upon nuclear energy was inevitable for a developing country such as India. He described n-energy as the country's "bread and butter." He also called upon adopting appropriate low-cost technologies in the rural sector as a majority of the population lived in villages and small towns.

Dr. Chidambaram said India needed to be an "innovation leader" in major technology areas. Defending the nuclear deterrence, he said it was ultimate in security and the greatest advantage of recognised strength was that "you do not have to use it.''

National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan, Director IB ESL Narasimhan, Home Secretary V.K. Duggal and senior police officers were present.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail