Advisor to the Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Innovation Council Sam Pitroda today described knowledge as the key to success in this age.

Pitroda, while delivering the fourth foundation lecture organised by Sikkim University through video conferencing from Chicago, described knowledge not only as the key to success in this age but also as the main driving force behind the modern economy.

Observing that innovation covers all the aspects of life, Pitroda underlined the need for creating India's own model of innovation which should cater to specific needs of our country. He suggested creation of innovation clusters at regional level through out the country.

Stating that the public information infrastructure in the country is aimed at democratisation of information, Pitroda asserted that the recent popular dissent against corruption is mainly attributed to the Right to Information Act and openness in administration in the country.

He called for setting up of State Knowledge Commissions and Innovation Councils which should be taken care by the concerned state governments.

The chief guest of the function Major General B K Sharma and Sikkim University Vice Chancellor Professor Mahendra P Lama also spoke on the occasion.