ISLAMABAD, May 25 (AFP) - Pakistan's top nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan called Tuesday for the country to acquire the ability to launch its own satellite to match rival India. "Launching of a satellite is necessary for Pakistan," Khan said adding it was essential for communications, enemy surveillance and remote sensing. He said his team of scientists had the ability to arrange the facility. "We need only government patronage," he told journalists here, as reports from India said the countdown for Wednesday's launch of a rocket which will signal New Delhi's entry into the satellite launch market continued trouble free. Pakistan launched its first weather satellite Badar-I with the help of China several years ago while Russia is helping the planned launch of Badar-II this year. Last year, India conducted five nuclear tests in May prompting a tit-for-tat response from Pakistan which detonated six of its own devices the same month in the Chaghi mountains in southwestern Baluchistan province. Pakistan also developed nuclear capable Ghauri and Shaheen ballistic missiles following India's missile programme. Having acquired the status of a nuclear and missile power, Pakistan should now concentrate on socio-economic development, Khan said. He said Pakistan did not want to enter into an arms race with India, he said, adding the country had already developed powerful bombs capable of inflicting devastation "unacceptable" for the enemy. Khan proposed launching a "Chaghi Fund" to raise money for development of science and technology and setting up of high-tech institutions in the country. People should voluntarily contribute one day's salary to the fund, he added.  