PM assures more sops for home state

S A S NAGAR, DEC 17: Prime Minister Inder Kumar Gujral today called upon the countrymen to be self-reliant in the field of science and tech...

S A S NAGAR, DEC 17: Prime Minister Inder Kumar Gujral today called upon the countrymen to be self-reliant in the field of science and technology which hold the key to future progress of the nation.

Addressing a mammoth public gathering after laying the foundation of an earth station and a Rs 300 crore Software Town of Punjab here, Gujral also assured all help for the development of his home state but held back specific announcements in view of the modal code of conduct in operation for general elections.

Gujral, whose arrival at Chandigarh Airport today was delayed by more than two hours due to dense fog, also dedicated to the nation the Very Large Scale Integrated Circuit fabrication centre, built at a cost of Rs 300 crore at Semiconductor Complex Ltd in the satellite town.

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Speaking at the earth station function in Punjabi, the Prime Minister asked State Government to set up modern industries, rather than going in for traditional units, which require less space, have more employment potential to absorb educated youths available here in plenty and have bright future.

Observing that India has emerged as the world’s biggest software producer, Gujral said the ambitious electronics projects planned here mark commencement of a new chapter in the country’s history.

He emphasised that science and technology parks should be established in each town for proper development of India. Calling upon the scientific community to make India take a lead in the scientific field, he complimented them for meeting the challenges in the past and fabricating sophisticated technology which was denied to India by advanced countries. “We, however, have to march ahead keeping our dignity,” he cautioned.

The crowd which braved the chilly winter winds and waited for hours to listen to the Prime Minister greeted Gujral with loud applause and jo bole so nihal, sat sri Akal.

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Winding up his 15-minute speech with folded hands and waiving to the crowd, Gujral too concluded with the same religious slogan.

Earlier, welcoming Gujral and Union Minister for Agriculture Chaturanan Mishra, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal drew their attention to rotting of paddy in the State. He warned of immense national loss if immediate steps were not taken for its shelling by relaxing specifications and offering incentives to industry. Badal expressed gratitude to Gujral for showing keen interest in Punjab’s development and hoped that the State would benefit immensely from his current visit as well, the election code of conduct notwithstanding.