Odisha CM Emphasizes Science and Technology as Catalysts for Development at Felicitation Ceremony

Bhubaneswar: Stressing the transformative role of science and technology in societal progress, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi called for greater integration of research and innovation in governance and public welfare. Speaking at the ‘Scientist Felicitation and Award Ceremony – 2023’ at the Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Center, the Chief Minister highlighted the need to bridge scientific advancements with real-world applications to accelerate Odisha’s economic and developmental growth.

Majhi emphasized that Odisha must embrace modern technology to compete globally, urging policymakers and scientists to work together in agriculture, healthcare, energy, education, and environmental conservation. He lauded India’s recent milestones in space exploration, including Chandrayaan, Aditya, Mangalyaan, and Gaganyaan, stating that Indian science is setting new global benchmarks. He also recognized the rising impact of artificial intelligence and the IT sector, stressing its role in reshaping industries and research methodologies.

The Chief Minister announced Odisha’s initiatives in deep-tech and frontier technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics, and quantum computing. He also underscored the state’s biotechnological potential, particularly in bio-resources and traditional medicine. One of the key projects in this regard is the establishment of the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor, aimed at utilizing the bio-resources of the Bay of Bengal for scientific and economic advancement. Additionally, the government is expanding STEM education by developing a network of planetariums and science centers across Odisha to nurture scientific temper among students.

Minister for Science and Technology, Food Supply, and Consumer Welfare, Krushna Chandra Patra, acknowledged the growing public interest in science and emphasized its increasing influence on daily life and governance. “Scientific progress is synonymous with national strength and prosperity,” he stated.

The event honored distinguished scientists for their contributions to research, innovation, and public service. The Senior Scientist Award was conferred upon Prof. Raj Kishore Paramguru, Dr. Subhrangshu Sekhar Mohapatra, Prof. Krishna Chandra Mohanty, Dr. Raghupati Bhima Rao, and Prof. Malay Kumar Mishra. The Biju Patnaik Award was presented to Prof. Kshirod Kumar Jena, while the Pranakrishna Parija Popular Science Book Award recognized Rabindranath Majhi and Tulasi Swain. The Samanta Chandra Sekhar Award was awarded to Dr. Sanghamitra Samantaray, Dr. Bedangadas Mohanty, Prof. Subrat Kumar Panda, and Prof. Pinaki Dutta. The Young Scientist Award honored Dr. Sarita Sekhar Pattnaik, Dr. Apramita Chand, Dr. Rajesh Kumar Prusti, and Dr. Sanjay Kumar Panda for their outstanding contributions.