CHEMICAL VIBES: M.R. Gajendragad, former Vice-Chancellor of Kuvempu University, speaking at a conference in Mangalore on Saturday.

MANGALORE: There are many challenges in chemistry to keep the next generation of students interested, former Vice-Chancellor of Kuvempu University M.R. Gajendragad has said.

Inaugurating a two-day conference on trends in chemical research organised by the Department of Chemistry, Mangalore University, here on Saturday, Mr. Gajendragad said chemistry and its allied branches would play a vital role in the days ahead. "Chemistry will have to provide answers to key development issues, including sustainable fuel sources," he added.

The availability of fossil fuel was not indefinite and its reserves were getting depleted. Research in fuel cells was of paramount importance. One should try to tap into the heavy water elements present in the ocean to find answers to our ever-growing energy needs, he said.

K.M. Kaveriappa, Vice-Chancellor, Mangalore University, who presided over the function, stressed the need for greater interaction between the industry and the academia to find solutions to various problems confronting the industry. Noting that the industry and academic institutions often worked in isolation, he said this gap should be bridged.

Interaction

Referring to the special economic zone and the move to set up a petrochemical complex as part of the project, he said the Department of Chemistry would have to play a vital role in facilitating greater interaction with such industries. The department, which was celebrating its silver jubilee, should rise to meet such challenges, he noted.

Vidya B. Lohray, senior vice-president, Zydus Research Centre, Zydus Cadila, Ahmedabad, who delivered the keynote address on "Chemistry: a science that changes the life," said the Indian pharmaceutical industry could provide medicines at affordable rates.

Job opportunities for scientists had significantly grown, she said.

Information technology and biotechnology, along with drug, pharmaceutical and chemical research, were the future growth drivers of India.

Noting that the industry was constantly on the look out for scientists, she said there was no place for isolated efforts to find solutions to various problems faced by mankind.

A.M.A. Khadar, convener of the conference, welcomed the gathering. Ishwara Bhat of the Department of Chemistry proposed a vote of thanks.

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