Private and public must collaborate in Indian nanotech

Tiny structures on peacock feathers are an example of natural nanomaterials, says Abdul

Tim Knight

Governments, universities and companies are becoming increasingly interested in the potential of nanotechnology, the technology of particles on the scale of one millionth of a millimetre. In 2004, the global market for products of nanotechnology is expected to be more than US$100 billlion.

In this article in the Hindustan Times, India's president A. P. J. Abdul Kalam says he believes nanotechnology could allow India to "become one of the important technological nations in the world". Cheap and energy efficient computing equipment, improved drug delivery systems and super strong, 'intelligent' materials are some of the advances he foresees for India if the private and public sectors work together to create a nanotech industry.

The article was adapted from a speech made in April to a meeting of scientists and technologists in Delhi.

Link to full article in the Hindustan Times