Stressing that science and Sanskrit were both important areas, the union minister commented that scientists were not proficient in Sanskrit while Sanskrit scholars had little knowledge of science. ``We need to create facilities wherein scientists have opportunities to learn Sanskrit so that they are able to authentically learn our texts,'' the minister suggested.

Joshi went on to say that Sanskrit scholars must be encouraged to learn modern science. This will enable scholars to correlate to what the scientists are looking for, ``some of which we might already have inour ancient texts'', he added.

The courses, Joshi said, should be flexible so as to suit the requirements of both scientists and Sanskrit scholars. Besides, ``It is now confirmed that Sanskrit grammar is of immense use in the development of computer language and machine-based translation of different languages,'' he said. All this pointed to a need to provide a suitable forum for scientists and Sanskrit scholars, Joshi added. Further, the modern mind and ancient Indian sages speak the language, he said.

The minister further said that India had been endowed with a rich spiritual heritage, adding, ``Indians should rediscover themselves instead of looking to the West''. Quoting Fritjof Capra, author of The Turning Point, Joshi said, ``What we need, then, is a new `paradigm' -- a new vision of reality.'' Those in the West had woken up to this fact and were looking for a new philosophy of life, he remarked.

Governor Dr P C Alexander, who presided over the function, spoke in glowing terms about the formerPresident. He also dwelt at length on spirituality and spiritual knowledge, keeping with the spirit of the evening.

The award was presented to the ex-President by a representative of the Sankaracharya of Kanchi for his contribution in the field of public service.

The national eminence award, presented to the former President, has been named after the late Paramcharya of Kanchi, Chandrasekharendra Saraswati. The SIES has set up a corpus fund of Rs one crore to perpetuate his teachings. Along with this, annual awards will be given every year in four fields -- public service, scientists, community leadership with emphasis on rural development and pravachana karthas. Each award carries a citation, a silver scroll and a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakhs. As it is the inaugural award, it has been confined to the field of public service. The Sankaracharyas of Kanchi, Jayendra Saraswathi and Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi are the patrons of the awards committee.