Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Begum Tehmina Daultana visited the PCSIR (Pakistan Council for Scientific & Industrial Research) laboratories here on Friday.
Speaking on the occasion she said, "We need to plan and develop small projects to eradicate poverty from the less developed areas like Quetta, Skardu, etc, while manpower will be recruited and trained from the respective provinces to end unemployment".
The minister was given a briefing about the infrastructure, available resources and challenges facing the PCSIR. She inquired about the feasibility of using solar energy everywhere across Pakistan, and wind energy particularly along the coastal areas. She directed the PCSIR administration to submit a detailed report in this regard.
Ms Daultana pointed out a lack of awareness among the stakeholders of all the research-based endeavours of the Council and urged the need for active interaction of PCSIR with both public and private sectors.
In a brief session with the media, she expressed the determination to deal with problems like water and energy crises on emergency basis. "Our government desires to make Pakistanis the real owners of all available national resources," she remarked.
The minister visited different sections of the laboratories and showed keen interest in the mechanical, surgical, and household goods, as well as the gems and jewellery section. She was accompanied by PCSIR Director General Dr Muhammad Saleem.