Mathematics Is Science: A Topic Revisited in Context of FCS of India

Mathematics is universally accepted as mother of all science. Despite that, Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT) has recently issued a circular mentioning that a person having master degree in mathematics cannot be considered for the post of scientists. The open question of ‗Is mathematics a science?' is revisited in this paper under the new perspective to explore scientific practices that sans mathematics arrived knocking, challenging basic understanding of precision and practical sense that makes science. Considering the fact that in India, most crucial policy decisions at a higher level of abstraction in every conceivable arena of our national life are taken by either GOM (Group of Ministers) or GOS (Group of Secretaries), apprehension raises a basic query 'Who decides?' Some decision causes much unexpected consequence, which is noticed when it takes its toll and becomes virtually irreversible. This recent decision of Flexible Complementing Scheme (FCS), wherein mathematics is not considered as science, has potential to damage the very scientific culture and practices in India. This paper is an attempt to place mathematics in its right perspective and to highlight the damage that this decision might do. The paper also suggests ways to control the