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The article discusses the Training Workshop on Quaternary Setup of Arid NW Himalaya: Main Focus on Ladakh sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) that was held in Leh, India from August 18, 2012 to September 6, 2012. It was organized by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) in Dehradun, India. It further highlights the presences of various scientists from different academic institutions including Umesh Sharma, Tsering Angchuk and Anil K. Gupta.

An interview with Thirumalachari Ramasami, the Secretary of State in India's Department of Science and Technology (DST), is presented. When asked about his interest in a scientific career, he refers to his childhood, which was based on asking questions and wondering why things happen. Ramasami believes that the DST is the arm of the government, which is tasked to distinguish the needs of the science and technology sector and to develop a foundation of science and technology in India.

Reports that India has increased funding for science in the country's annual budget. Announcement that the Department of Science and Technology will receive extra funds for disaster-mitigation activities following the Gujarat earthquake; Funding for industrial research and atomic energy, space and defense research; Major increase in funding for oceanographic research; Funding for biotechnology and research into traditional medicines.

Reports the support by the Indian government to the recommendations endorsed by the World Conference on Science 1999. Organization of the meeting by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (Unesco) and the International Council for Science (ICSU); Proposed submission of the Indian action plan to the Unesco conference in 1999 October; Comments by Murli Manohar Joshi, India's minister for science.

Reports the divisions in the Indian scientific community caused by perks given to scientists in the departments of defense, atomic energy, and space. Other scientists neglected for salary raises and promotions; Views of Valangiman Ramamurthi of the Department of Science and Technology.

Reports on the appointment of Manju Sharma as the first Indian woman head of the Department of Science and Technology. Sharma's previous work; Plans for the department.

Reports on a study conducted by the Indian Department of Science and Technology which found that 80 percent of scientists occupying senior positions are over 50 years of age. Increase of the average age of scientists working for government scientific organizations; Implications of the ageing of research personnel on Indian research; Status of India's women scientists.

Presents figures from the Indian Department of Science and Technology on the country's national expenditure on research and development (R&D) during 1992-1993. Private sector share of national R&D expenditure; Amount spent by the industry.