The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today called upon universities to encourage scientific research in traditional knowledge systems such as organic farming and medicinal systems and ‘rediscover our intellectual capital’ in a systematic way.

Shri Naidu appreciated Sikkim, a leader in organic farming, for having started vocational training on the subject in all its secondary and senior secondary schools, apart from bringing out new primary textbooks with focus on sustainable development.

The Vice President was laying the foundation stone virtually for the Khangchendzonga State University in Sikkim. Shri Naidu, who is on a four-day tour of Mizoram and Sikkim, arrived in Gangtok today.

Stressing on the important role of universities in fast-tracking all-round development, Shri Naidu observed that ‘with quality higher education, Sikkim can be a pace setter in making education an important catalyst for sustainable development’.

Shri Naidu said that universities in the region must develop linkages with the industry and local institutions to design innovative solutions to problems that are specific to the region. “In other words, think globally but act locally”, he said and urged students to take advantage of the region’s natural strengths in eco-tourism, horticulture and handicrafts and strive for excellence.

Noting the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the education sector in India, Shri Naidu said that education cannot remain static and called for innovation and adaptation to the changing market demands.