Hyderabad: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public grievances, Atomic Energy, and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, inaugurated the first-ever “Science Experience Centre” and an exclusive “Biofuel Centre” at CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) in Hyderabad today.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the pivotal role the Science Experience Centre will play in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). The Centre, established by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), aims to spread the culture of science in society, particularly among students. With a motto of ‘Communicating Science to Empower People,’ the Centre will develop exhibits, exhibitions, galleries, and organize interactive science education programs.
Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of nurturing young minds and encouraging innovative ideas for startups. He noted that the collaboration between CSIR and NCSM is a significant step toward promoting science as a culture and empowering the youth.
The Minister, who is also the Vice President of CSIR, commended the organization’s contributions to national development. He cited examples such as the development of indigenous two-seater Hansa-NG aircraft, bio-jet fuel for sustainable aviation, earthquake-resistant structures, and India’s first fuel cell-driven automotive. Dr. Jitendra Singh also acknowledged CSIR’s societal benefit programs, including the Aroma Mission, sea weed cultivation, Heeng cultivation, and the Purple Revolution in Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting CSIR’s role during the pandemic, the Minister praised CSIR-IICT for developing an adjuvant for the COVID-19 vaccine. He stressed the government’s commitment to developing a scientific temperament and fostering awareness of science and technology, citing the importance of experience-based learning.
Dr. Jitendra Singh mentioned the world’s largest integrated cluster, the Hyderabad Pharma City, recognizing its significance in pharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing. He underscored CSIR-IICT’s contributions to the agrochemical industry, particularly the development of Pheromone Application Technology (PAT).
Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted CSIR’s vision for 2030 – to enhance the quality of life through innovative science and technology, globally competitive R&D, sustainable solutions, and capacity building, aligning with the government’s vision for the next 25 years, ‘Amrit Kal,’ celebrating Bharat’s hundredth year of Independence in 2047.
The inauguration marks a crucial step in nurturing future scientists, fostering a scientific temperament, and contributing to the vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India).