Governor express concern for scientists at research centre over erratic power supply
Dimapur, Mat 31 (MExN): The Governor of Nagaland Nikhil Kumar today expressed his concern over the ongoing erratic power supply, stating that it might affect the research works of the scientists at the centre. However he said in regard to this problem Nagaland is no different from other states but he assured that a proposal will be forwarded to the State Government to provide a dedicated power line to the centre.
“We shall do what we can. If that happens it will be for the benefit of this institute,” the Governor assured during the inaugural programme of the 3-day training on “Basic Principles of PCR and its application in molecular biology research.
The training is being organised for undergraduate’s students of Nagaland University at National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM), ICAR, Jharnapani in Medziphema. The objective of the training is to create awareness among the school and college students on biotechnology, which is a fast growing sector. The training programme is sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the Governor appreciated the faculty for organizing the training programme. Also, he appreciated the centre’s recent achievement for successfully implementation of ETT (Embryo Transfer Technology) with Mithun, which is first of its kind in the world.
He also said that the centre should explore more on the possibility of producing high quality leather from Mithun so that it will benefit the State’s economy. He urged the centre’s scientists to ensure scientific and sustainable development programmes committed to development of Mithun or otherwise.
Also, he suggested the centre to provide accommodation for the students in future, if such trainings are conducted. “If at all you need my assistance I shall do my best but make up your mind and decide what you need and let me know. We want to make this centre as a success story for Nagaland.”
Earlier the Director of NRCM C Rajkhowa disclosed that the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under Ministry of Science and Technology has proposed to help the institute by sanctioning more than Rs 4 cores for improvement of infrastructure development and procurement of sophisticated scientific tools. Also, DBT has promised to support NCRM in extending training facilities to schools and colleges.
Also, Joint Director of ICAR research Complex, Nagaland Centre Dr B Deka said that Northeast Zone is a “germplasm” hub and by using PCR it is possible to know within a short span of time whether the germplasm are genetically identical. However, he lamented that there is only one scientist representing Nagaland on this field.
On which, the Advisor to the Department of Biotechnology under Ministry of Science and Technology Dr. T. Madhan Mohan said in future he expects at least 10 to 15 scientists from Nagaland. “…this has to be addressed,” he added.
Dr. Madhan, who graced the occasion as guest of honour highlighted the importance of Biotechnology and importance of biotechnology hub. He said the Ministry of Science and Technology organizes various training programmes for scientists outside the country, stating that 2 years back the Ministry has supported around 60 scientists.
He also said that northeast is a hot spot for biodiversity, which is “undisturbed unlike other regions where genes have been mutated.
Today, students from Patkai Christian Autonomous College and St. Francis De Sales School Medziphema attended the inaugural programme. The chief guest earlier took part in the lighting of the lamp ceremony and inaugurated the Bio Informatics lab.
