A Milestone in Scientific Exploration
The foundation stone for the first-ever “Science Experience Centre” at CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) in Tarnaka was laid on 4th March, 2024. The ceremony was led by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, who expressed his commitment to fostering scientific curiosity and innovation in the country.
Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of the ₹41-crore, 4,000-square metre centre in promoting science as a career and instilling a scientific temper in society. He also acknowledged the need for suitable land to transform the upcoming ‘Science Experience Centre’ into a full-fledged ‘Science City,’ promising to approach the State government once again for this purpose.
Jitendra Singh lamented the under-highlighting of breakthrough achievements by CSIR labs in recent years, such as the launch of the two-seat plane ‘Hansa,’ advancements in bio-fuel, and the introduction of ‘hing’ cultivation. He stressed the need for media recognition of these significant achievements.
Following Dr. Singh, G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Development of Northeast Region, expressed his eagerness to support this initiative. Despite numerous letters to the previous government seeking land for the proposed ‘Science City,’ he revealed that no response was received. However, he assured that the Centre would approach the current regime for land once again.
Reddy also expressed gratitude to Dr. Singh for promptly agreeing to provide land within the IICT campus for the Science Experience Centre. He promised to incorporate the latest technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics, to create an immersive experience for youngsters.
This event marks a significant step towards realizing the vision of a scientifically curious and technologically advanced India. The presence of both ministers underscored the Centre’s commitment to this cause and set the stage for future advancements in the field of science and technology.
Plans for the Science Experience Centre include scaled models of rockets and missiles from DRDO and ISRO, along with interactive exhibits to explain scientific concepts to children in an entertaining manner. Additionally, the centre will feature an auditorium, library, medicinal garden, and an outing area for families.
The collaboration between CSIR and the National Council of Science Museums has paved the way for similar centres across the country. Projects in Kottayam, Rajahmundry, and Almora are in the finishing stages, while 30 more centres are in the pipeline.
CSIR Director-General N. Kalaiselvi commended the collaboration with the Culture ministry, hinting at collaboration with the Tourism Ministry in the future. Former DRDO Chairman G. Satheesh Reddy, former CSIR D-G Shekhar C. Mande, and Joint Secretary of the Culture Ministry, Mugda Sinha, were present at the ceremony, marking a significant step towards advancing scientific awareness and education in the country.
-Raja Aditya
