New Delhi (NVI): Expressing concern over the increasing incidence of poor air quality in Delhi and other cities, President Ram Nath Kovind today asked institutes like IITs and NITs to come up with innovative solutions to this problem.
He said during this time (winter and stubble burning season), the air quality worsens beyond all norms and it is a challenge that has never been faced, the President said at a meeting of Directors of IITs, NITs and IIEST at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here.
Kovind said on days of smog and poor visibility in our cities, we fear the future might already be here. He expressed confidence that institutions like IITs, NITs with their various specialisations, would take care to create a sensitivity and awareness among students and researchers towards our common future.
The President said that the hydrocarbon energy (fossil fuel) which changed the face of the world in the last couple of centuries was now threatening the existence of living beings.
“The challenge is compounded for nations battling to bring substantial sections of populations out of poverty. Yet, we will have to find alternatives,” he said.
The President said that our government has made focused efforts to improve India’s ranking on the Ease of Doing Business Index, and now it aims to improve the Ease of Living for all citizens. From the technology perspective, he expressed confidence that institutions like IITs, NITs can make the most crucial contribution to Ease of Living for all citizens.
He said that improving urban infrastructure, making water supply systems efficient, making healthcare delivery more effective – there are countless ways technology can make dramatic difference in the life of an average Indian.
