Inaugural Address

Dr. Altekar, distinguished guest, ladies and gentlemen,

It is indeed a great privilege to be present on the occa-ssion of the Inauguration of this international symposium on "Science and technology of sponge iron and its conv-ersion to steel". The technology that is going to be dis-cussed here is not only new approach to steel making in India but also in many parts of the world. A few scien-tists and technologists in the world have working know-ledge of these processes. You will therefore appreciate and understand my own unfamiliarity with this subject. Inspite of this, I very gladly accepted the invitation due to my own deep interest in the growth of a new industries, which are so vital for bringing a socio-economic revo-lution, a call given by our beloved Prime Minister.