(a) whether the Government has decided to hold a conference on ‘Zero’ at United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Headquarters at Paris jointly with UNESCO to commemorate the pioneering works of two Indian academics, Ramanujan and Aryabhatta.
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the time by which it is likely to be implemented?
MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
(Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani)
(a) to (c) : Yes, Madam. The Ministry of Human Resource Development, in collaboration with UNESCO, hosted an International Conference on ‘Zero’ on 4-5 April, 2016 at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, France. The conference was an effective projection of soft power, showcasing India’s rich and remarkable heritage in Mathematics. The Conference attracted eminent academicians from the world of mathematics. A bust of the great Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhatta was unveiled and placed at the entrance of UNESCO. The Conference highlighted the extraordinary contribution of Indian mathematician Srinivasan Ramanujan to mathematical research.
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