Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of the National Science Day, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated a series of District Science Centers and Planetariums across Odisha, reinforcing the state’s commitment to promoting scientific education and technological advancement. The inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony took place in various districts, including Jaipur in Koraput, Rayagada, Ghatgaon in Keonjhar, Baripada in Mayurbhanj, and the foundation stone laying in Jagatsinghpur.
In his address during the event, Chief Minister Patnaik emphasized the pivotal role of science in fostering development. He stressed that every facet of societal progress is intertwined with scientific and technological advancements. The Chief Minister highlighted the infusion of technology in the education sector, including smart classrooms, e-libraries, and modern laboratories, as part of the 5T school transformation initiative.
Underscoring the significance of science centers, Chief Minister Patnaik stated that the state government is resolute in opening science centers in every district to popularize science and encourage the use of technology. Additionally, plans include establishing Innovation Centers in planetariums and schools. Future endeavors involve the opening of science centers in Bhadrak, Balangir, Sundargarh, and Ganjam districts, along with planetariums.
Expressing his vision, Chief Minister Patnaik expressed his desire for the children of Odisha to lead in the fields of science and technology, contributing to the state’s reputation and progress. He urged collective efforts to realize the dream of building a New Odisha.
The initiative involves an expenditure of Rs 6.5 crore for each science center built under the 5T initiative, Rs 15 crore for the planetarium, and a combined investment of Rs 21.5 crore for both the science center and planetarium.
State Science and Technology Minister Shri Ashok Chandra Panda commended the Chief Minister’s initiative, foreseeing substantial benefits for students in the days to come. He lauded the timely move to popularize science.
5T and Naveen Odisha Chairman Mr. Karthik Pandian, who coordinated the program, engaged with the students, emphasizing how science education can transform lives and society. He encouraged the children to work hard and succeed, acknowledging the government’s various educational programs, including the 5T program, school transformation program, and Nua-O program.
Dignitaries such as Mr. Sujith Kumar, MP in Bhavanipatna, Jagannath Saraka, Minister for Scheduled Castes and Tribes Development in Rayagada, and Mr. Badrinarayan Pote, MLA in Ghatgaon, thanked Chief Minister Patnaik for the groundbreaking initiative to ignite scientific curiosity among students.