NT NETWORK
Dr Anil Kakodkar, eminent nuclear scientist and former chairman of Atomic Energy Commission, Government of India, and one of the architects of the Indo-US 123 agreement, on Saturday stated that civil nuclear co-operation is not just for energy security but also for energy independence for the country.

He stated, “In the coming times the import of nuclear energy will be very tough for any country. Thus, we should use the import now; multiply it by domestic capability because it will not possible to import energy in the future. India should be energy independent and help other countries to gain energy independence too.”
He was speaking soon after he was award the first ever Gomant Vibhushan award at the hand of the Governor of West Bengal, Mr M K Narayanan at the DMK Hall, Kala Academy, on Saturday. He was also awarded with a scroll of honour and shawl.
He further mentioned that this award is special to him as it has been given with so much love and affection, and it comes from the land of his roots. He remarked, “The emotion cannot be described in words.֊”
Receiving this award at the hands of Mr M K Narayanan, with whom he has worked closely during the nuclear agreement, only redoubled the value of the award he said.
Speaking about Goa he cited that Goa is deeply engaged in art and culture and also has the highest number of intellectuals compared to its population.
The Governor of West Bengal and former National Security advisor, Mr M K Narayanan said that the award should have been given to Ms Kamala Kakodkar, mother of Dr Anil Kakodkar who raised him against all odds. He added, “Dr Kakodkar has made not only Goa, but also India proud. We are now a nuclear weapon power and have a robust nuclear weapon programme. The person who was in the driver’s seat is Dr Kakodkar. He has a touch of a genius.” He also shared some of his experiences with Dr Kakodkar during his tenure as National Security Advisor.
Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat in his speech mentioned that Dr Kakodkar’s strongest quality was that he is a good human being. He added, “Today no state progress without power and Dr Kakodkar has contributed greatly to this field. His is the main contribution in the 123 agreement.” He also mentioned that the standard of the award had increased with this first awardee.
The Leader of Opposition, Mr Manohar Parrikar stated that now it is important to maintain the standard of award as after giving it to Dr Kakodkar the level has increased. He also appreciated the good work of the State government by selecting Dr Kakodkar for the Goa’s highest civilian award.
Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly Mr Pratapsing Rane, MP Mr Francisco Sardinha, MP Mr Shantaram Naik also spoke on the occasion.
The event was organised by Directorate of Art and Culture.