Dr Jitendra Singh, on May 28, took over as the new minister of state (independent charge) for the ministry of science and technology as well as the ministry of earth sciences. Speaking on the occasion in New Delhi at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) headquarters, Anusandhan Bhawan he said that the Government will work out a policy initiative for inclusive growth of youngsters in the field of science.

Stating that the government will serve science with a scientific temperament, Dr Jitendra Singh said, " Another priority would be to ensure R&D growth in multifarious directions. Science and technology will be utilized for the development and empowerment of youth, who form a sizable percentage of the population." Pointing out that there is no dearth of opportunity in the country, the Minister said that all efforts would be made to make India world's No. 1 in the field of science by 2020.

Dr Jitendra Singh also said that scientific institutions will be made more pro active in the dissemination of information regarding innovations in various fields of science. He said the department of science and technology (DST) will also try to interface with other related departments to make research and development more effective for the betterment of the society.

Earlier, the minister was received by Dr K Vijayaraghavan, secretary, Department of Biotechnology and Department of Science and Techconology along with Dr Shailesh Nayak, secretary, Ministry of earth sciences. After taking over, Dr Jitendra Singh held a meeting with senior officials of his ministry.