Practical magic

<div class="section1"><div class="Normal"><span style="" font-style:="" italic="">Currently in Mumbai, celebrated British science journalist Jeremy Webb says India should invest in pure science</span><br /><br />Keeping his reputation as the one of the highly respected science journalists in the world is not a tough task for Britain-based Jeremy Webb. Making science exciting for audiences across age groups is what challenges him the most. In Mumbai for series of lectures, Webb spoke to BT about the need to spread the message of science and understand its implications in daily life.<br /><br />Science, he says, is not everyone''s cup of tea. "It''s still something we learned in school and got rid of eventually." He outlines his role in the popularising of the subject. "My task is increase the curiosity, present articles which tell of impact on the entire world." <br /><br />Global warming, he says, is reality, not just science fiction. "It''s been happening for over two centuries. The extending monsoon period, the recent heat waves in Europe are enough evidence of the rising temperatures. It''s a complex phenomenon, which is for real." He says the key is to make politicians sensitive to the issue so that government policy can be changed accordingly. "Scientists present pure facts, environmentalists have a political agenda."<br /><br />Talking about India''s scientific and technological breakthroughs, he says, "India''s got a long tradition of physics and mathematics. You are already becoming a technology giant. However, you need good investment in pure science for a better tomorrow, something which Japan realised in the early ''90s. It is a long term business prospect. Let people go and think below a tree and come up with brilliant ideas! It is not a waste of money in the long run." He points out that to have a scientist for a President is fantastic. Webb recalls setting up an interview with President APJ Abdul Kalam before he became head of state. "We set up the interview. But he soon became President of India and got busy. He''s fascinating, especially his eagerness to interact with school kids and talk about a scientific vision. I hope to catch up with him soon," he concludes.</div> </div>