Nagpur, Aug 9 (PTI) Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said the countries which are indulging in `dadagiri' (bullying) in today's world can do so because they are economically strong and have technology.

Speaking at the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) here, he also stressed the need to increase India's exports and reduce the imports.

"If the rate of our exports and economy increase, then I don't think we will need to go to anyone. Those who are indulging in `dadagiri' are doing so because they are economically strong, and they have technology. If we get better technology and resources, we will not bully anyone, because our culture teaches us that welfare of the world is most important," he said.

"We are facing various problems globally, and the solution to all these problems are science and technology, that is knowledge, which is a power," he said.

Increasing exports and decreasing imports is necessary if India wants to become a `Vishwaguru', the BJP leader said.

Research institutions, IITs and engineering colleges should conduct research keeping the requirements of the country in view, he said, adding that though research in other fields is equally important. PTI CLS KRK

Science and technology as strategic national capacity to reduce dependence and boost exports through aligned research. Emphasis on national capacity in science and technology as a strategic prerequisite for economic autonomy and diminished external coercion, linking technological strength and export growth to reduced dependence. Research institutions are urged to align research with national requirements to increase exports, decrease imports, and support broader national leadership and welfare objectives, while recognising the continuing importance of diverse research fields.