Highlighting the power of Ideas, the CM said that ideas had
the potential to produce change. To stress his point, the CM
mentioned a breakthrough innovation, which has captured
the imagination of the world. He said, “Gujarat has the longest
network of Canals. We installed Solar panels on canal tops.
They not only produce electricity but also reduce water losses,
occurring due to evaporation.”
Further, the CM sought to give a new meaning to Corporate
Social Responsibility by suggesting the inclusion of research and
innovation in CSR programs.
Emphasizing the importance of providing encouragement to
innovators, the CM mentioned several concrete steps taken by
the Government of Gujarat to provide impetus to innovation. He
said, “Earlier there used to be just one Science fair in the entire
state. Now we are conducting 250-300 science fairs every year.
I make it a point to visit as many as possible. This provides
encouragement to schoolchildren. Additionally, I make it a point
to meet with those students who have excelled in innovation by
conducting ground-breaking research and if necessary provide
them assistance.” Further, the CM laid out his plan for developing
an excellent incubation centre, in Ahmedabad, which is to be
chaired by Mr. Narayan Murthy.
The CM urged the people to look at India’s glorious heritage
and recall the many innovations that have happened in India
over thousands of years. He highlighted past innovations of our
ancestors like the invention of the number zero and mentioned
instances from Hindu texts, which indicate the use of path-
breaking technology. Speaking about it, the CM said, “The time
has come rediscover our lost heritage and give something back
to the world.”
(Watch:
)
35
