Shimla, Sept. 3 -- In wake of recurrent disasters, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) will conduct grassroots-level research on the causes and remedies of floods, heavy rainfall, and recurring natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh. This was stated by the new director of the institute Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, here on Tuesday while sharing his vision. IIAS after three years got a regular director. Stressing on extensive studies on disaster, Chaturvedi said, "We will rope in people who are linked with disaster to conduct studies. We aim to involve locals to conduct area specific studies." "We need to tap the knowledge system which goes beyond text books and is passed from generation to generation. We must reach them, talk to them, and try to understand: if this is happening, why is it happening? What are the remedies? What are the ways to make people in Himachal Pradesh safe from disasters?" said Chaturvedi. He said that they will be holding the first General Body meeting of IIAS to finalise a clear-cut roadmap for this research initiative. "My priorities are to advance the institute's mandate and to explore new ways of expanding advanced research, especially in interdisciplinary areas. Alongside, I also believe in preserving Himachal Pradesh's folk culture, which is vast and diverse, and can be safeguarded through our work," he said. Chaturvedi said, "While preserving the heritage we also plan better facilities for visitors including electric golf carts for elderly tourists so they can move around easily."...