Speech of Mr. Virendar Mohan Trehan, Chairman, Delhi Chapter, ISCA on the Interactive Session on “Arctic Region – Challenges and Opportunities – Indian Perspective”in 19th September, 2008

I, on behalf of Indian Science Congress Association, Delhi Chapter, welcome you all to the Interactive Session on the subject of tropical interest i.e. “Arctic Region -Challenges and Opportunities – Indian Perspective”

We have with us today, Hon’ble Minister of Science& Technology and Earth Sciences to enlighten us on this subject.

A Scientist, generally, knows about his subject deeply and thoroughly but a personality like Shri Kapil Sibal - who may not be aspecialist in basic sciences of a particular subject, is interested to develophis knowledge about the subject, he is dealing with. Not many Politicians and Civilians are interested to think beyond their nose. Shri Sibal – who started his career as a well known Advocate after doing his education from India and abroad, has served as an Additional Solicitor General of India and was also President of the Supreme Court Bar Association. He was first electedto Raya Sabha and then returned as a Lok Sabha Member from the Chandani Chowk Constituency. With his intellect acumen and management style, he has turned the Ministry around to leave his imprint on its functioning!

I was personally enamoured by the fact that he has visitedNorth Pole & South Pole – which perhaps very few people in the world havedone – may be some Scientists and/or Defence personnel.

He has to his credit the first ever Indian Arctic Expedition, where we have also joined the league of Norway, Germany, France ,Italy, Britain, Japan, China etc. by setting up Research Station. Earlier, he had also visited Antartica Station which was established under the leadership of Dr. S Z Qasim, sitting bymy side. This shows Mr. Sibal’scuriosity and keenness to learn at any age!

I think this should also go to the credit of a superb Advocate – who has to study his subject thoroughly to win the case.

Another facet of Shri Sibal’s personality has been revealedrecently through his Poetry Book.

When you are in touch with a Scientist on a scientific subject, you know what kind of answers you might get, but it would be interesting to have perspective from a person of faculty other than the basic Science.

I, welcome you, Sir, in today’s gathering and appreciatey our joining us. I am pleased to inform you that we have today, not only some of the Scientists but alsoAcademicians and students of Schools and Colleges – who are keen to interact with you.

I also welcome the great Dr. S Z Qasim – first Scientist tolead Indian delegation to Antartica. Dr. Qasim has been closely associated with the scientific developmentand spread of scientific temper in the country. It was he – who initiated me to join Indian Science Congress Association when he was the General President. A dear friend and a mentor. We always look forward to him for guidance!

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