Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 3 (IANS) Basic science education is being neglected in the country and a lot of importance is given on studying information technology (IT), Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan said Sunday.
Delivering his address at the 97th Indian Science Congress (ISC 2010) here, Achuthanandan said steps should be taken and adequate support provided to ensure that basic science education is not neglected.

“Neglecting basic science education is taking place. The government should play an important role in promoting science teaching. The universities, research institutions and national funding agencies should work in tandem for this,” he said adding that stress is being laid on studying IT today.

Achuthanandan said his Kerala government has been taking several steps to promote basic science education.

“We have announced a scholarship of Rs.5,000 each for 10,000 students in the high school category. We have formed a higher education council too. Steps have already been taken to revamp the undergraduate education system,” he said.

Also, “the neglect of research in agriculture is a serious cause for concern. There should be specific programmes in agricultural research”, Achuthanandan added.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh earlier Sunday inaugurated ISC 2010 science congress which will conclude Thursday.