CHENNAI: Former President of India A P J Abdul Kalam on Monday stressed the need for a solar-powered economy and a smart water grid besides a creative leadership with integrity for development of the nation.
Delivering the seventh Endowment Lecture on Technology and Economy for National Development, Kalam said there should be energy independence from fossil fuels. Solar, wind, nuclear and hydropower should be tapped, he said.
He said networking of water bodies was required and welcomed the Union government’s plan to develop 100 smart cities. “There is the need to study how the economic engine in smart cities can operate,” he said.
The former President further said economic development and creative leadership must be interlinked. He added that the prosperity of nation was empowered by economic development and great human character.
He said urban amenities must be provided to rural areas, and that research and development should focus on green environment and providing safe drinking water. A book authored by D K Srivastava, former chairman of Madras School of Economics, was released. Addressing the gathering, Srivastava said the fear of many states on issues pertaining to Goods Service Tax should be allayed.