Odisha Explores Satellite Launch Centre, Plans New Science Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is exploring the possibility of setting up a satellite launch centre in the state, with the government having initiated discussions with the Centre on the proposed facility, Science and Technology Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said on Monday.

Patra made the announcement while addressing a National Space Day programme organised at the Odisha Space Applications Centre (ORSAC) in Bhubaneswar. He said preliminary discussions had been held with the Central Government and the proposal was also taken up with the Union Minister during his recent visit to New Delhi.

The minister said the state was strengthening its focus on scientific research, emerging technologies and innovation while taking steps to nurture scientific thinking among students.

Highlighting the growing importance of space and geospatial technology in governance, Patra said ORSAC was generating important data on agricultural land, groundwater and mineral resources. Such information, he said, was helping the government improve planning and conserve public resources.

Patra also pointed to the growing presence of Odisha startups in advanced technology sectors. He said startups from the state were developing drones and other technological products that have found applications, including in the country’s defence sector.

The government is also planning to expand the state’s scientific infrastructure with a proposed Science Bhawan, a new ORSAC building and a GIS laboratory, the minister said.

Additional Chief Secretary, Science and Technology Department, Chithra Arumugam said Odisha had made significant progress in promoting science education and public awareness. She highlighted the science centres and planetariums established in Kendujhar, Mayurbhanj, Rayagada, Ganjam, Balangir and Rourkela.

She encouraged students to visit these facilities and develop greater interest in space, planets and other areas of science, stressing the importance of curiosity and continuous learning.

CSIR Professor Shishir Panda, who delivered the keynote address, urged students to remain focused on their goals and shared insights from his own professional journey.

ORSAC CEO Rashmita Panda welcomed the gathering and outlined the organisation’s activities and contributions in the application of space technology and geospatial information for development.

The programme also saw the release of an atlas on groundwater conservation, a publication on Sustainable Development Goals, the ORSAC Education Intern Portal and an ORSAC project booklet.

Students who excelled in various school-level competitions were felicitated, while an exhibition showcasing scientific and technological initiatives was organised on the occasion. Several startups were also recognised for their contributions.

Senior officials of the Science and Technology Department, scientists, educationists and students attended the programme.