Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh have indicated that the retirement age of scientists under the ministry may be raised from 60 to 62 years. The proposal is to utilise the expertise over an extended period.

"The government is seriously thinking of enhancing the retirement age of the scientists to 62. The kind of acumen they achieve by the time they reach the age of 60 should be put to use for another two years. We would seriously work on the feasibility of this proposal," the minister said.

However it was clarified that the proposal to increase the age of scientists was limited to his ministries.

Besides Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh is in-charge of Earth Sciences, Departments of Atomic Energy and Space and Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions. He is also MoS PMO.

Singh added that the proposal of increasing the age of scientists is being deliberated as it requires approvals from different ministries to take the "positive steps".

Also, there are several scientists heading different ministries and departments have well crossed their retirement age, but have been retained by the government owing to their experience and expertise.