Historical records show that Kerala was a hotbed of original discoveries in mathematics between the 14 and 16 centuries when the erstwhile school of mathematics and astronomy at Sangamagrama near Thrissur came up with pioneering contributions to the study of geometry, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.
But when it comes to modern scientific research in Kerala, mathematics takes a backseat to other sciences. It does not even figure in the 398 research projects funded by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) over the last 10 years. Of the Rs.42 crore spent by KSCSTE during the period to promote research, not a single paise went to mathematics, it was revealed at a stock taking meet held here on Tuesday.
Addressing the Principal Investigators’ Meet, Executive Vice President, KSCSTE, V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai expressed concern over the fact that mathematics had been overlooked in funding for research. He said the council would try to correct the imbalance. Joint director R. Prakashkumar said the council had not received project proposals in mathematics from any institution.
While KSCSTE sanctioned 193 research projects in life sciences and medical sciences over the last decade, 104 projects went to physical science and 101 were sanctioned in agricultural sciences. A total of Rs.1128.18 crore was allocated for 157 research projects taken up by universities. While research and development institutions claimed Rs.827.11 crore for 109 research projects, government and aided colleges were sanctioned Rs.648.59 crore for 72 projects and Rs.124.49 crore was allotted for 38 projects submitted by self-financed or non governmental institutions.
Highlighting the need to improve the quality and quantity of science research, Prof. Pillai said the funds should be utilised to generate more publications and develop infrastructure and human resources. The council, he said, would introduce more rigorous parameters for sanctioning projects.
