New Delhi [India], September 26 (ANI): Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Friday said that science initiatives in the country have grown significantly over the last 10 to 11 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On the occasion of the 84th CSIR Foundation Day, he said efforts are being made to connect CSIR's 37 institutes with the public, industry, and other science departments to boost innovation and support the country's goal of becoming a developed nation.

Speaking to the reporters, Jitendra Singh said, '...Today is CSIR's 84th Foundation Day... It is one of India's oldest government agencies. In the last 10-11 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, all science initiatives have expanded. The private sector has been deeply involved.'

'Keeping this in mind, by highlighting these 37 institutes, we have aimed not only to connect with the public but also to reshape their role by connecting them with other science departments. This approach removes isolation and establishes a broad link between industry-research-academia, recognising the importance of technology in India's development and its crucial role in achieving the goal of a developed India,' he said.

Singh also praised Prime Minister Modi's decision on GST reforms.

He also stated that schemes like Ayushman Bharat and the expansion of medical college seats have improved access and affordability in healthcare.

'There is no doubt about the commendable decision taken by PM Modi. Taxes have been reduced on all items. Many items now have 0% tax. Additionally, consider the entire ecosystem of medicines - life-saving drugs, and initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, as well as the expansion of medical colleges... As seats in medical colleges have increased, access has improved, affordability of healthcare has increased, and awareness campaigns have been launched for TB and sickle cell anaemia,' Singh said.

The reform in the Goods and Services Tax structure was approved during the 56th meeting of the GST Council earlier this month is set to come into effect from September 22.

The current four-rate system will now be replaced with a streamlined two-slab regime of 5 per cent and 18 per cent. A separate 40 per cent slab has been retained for luxury and sin goods.

The healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors have also been given priority. Over 30 life-saving drugs and diagnostic kits have been fully exempt from GST, while other essential medicines, including those used in traditional systems such as Ayurveda and Unani, will attract a 5 per cent GST. Medical devices like thermometers, glucometers, and corrective lenses have also been moved to the lower tax bracket, making healthcare more affordable for the masses.

Meanwhile earlier in the day, United States President Donald Trump announced that his administration will impose a 100 per cent tariff on branded and patented pharmaceutical products beginning October 1, 2025, unless the manufacturing companies are building production facilities in the United States. (ANI)