New Delhi: In an effort to boost students' interest in basic sciences, the Government has decided to observe 2004 as the 'Year of Scientific Awareness' as part of which a 'Vigyan Rail' (science exhibition on wheels) would be flagged off by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee next week.

This was announced by Human Resource Development Minister Murli Manohar Joshi while addressing the Parliamentary Consultative Committee attached to his Ministry last evening (Dec 9, 2003).

Expressing concern over the low interest shown by students in basic sciences, he said today's technologies were the outcome of fundamental research undertaken in the past and asked the University Grant Commission (UGC) to see how students' interest in basic sciences could be rejuvenated.

Despite the recent initiatives, the quality of research still remained a matter of concern, Joshi said reminding UGC to promote scientific excellence in teaching institutions at a fast pace.

Referring to the existence of a large number of private universities, especially in Chattisgarh, he said that the UGC has asked the private universities already established to comply with the regulations within three months, failing which their degrees would be de-recognised.

PTI