Odisha Seeks Centre’s Support to Set Up State-of-the-Art Science City in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: To boost scientific learning, research, and innovation in eastern India, Odisha’s Minister for Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare and Science & Technology, Krushna Chandra Patra, met Union Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh in New Delhi on Tuesday to seek central support for the establishment of a cutting-edge Science City in Bhubaneswar.

The Odisha Government has earmarked 100 acres of land for the proposed Science City, envisioned as a modern, interactive hub that will inspire scientific curiosity among youth and promote hands-on learning. In a formal letter submitted during the meeting, Shri Patra emphasized that the state is committed to nurturing a scientific mindset among its citizens and highlighted the need for central assistance to bring the ambitious project to fruition.

“The Science City in Bhubaneswar will not only serve as a space for immersive education but also encourage innovation, research, and entrepreneurship in the field of science and technology,” said Patra. He noted that the initiative aligns with India’s national vision to promote scientific temper and technological advancement, as outlined in the Government of India’s policies.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh welcomed the proposal and appreciated Odisha’s proactive approach to expanding its scientific infrastructure. He assured the delegation that the Centre would examine the proposal in detail and engage with relevant agencies to chart out a plan for its implementation. He also suggested leveraging Odisha’s existing scientific ecosystem, including CSIR laboratories and space research facilities, to complement new developments such as the proposed Science City.

In addition to the Science City proposal, Patra submitted a set of other forward-looking initiatives. These include a request for the establishment of an Astronomy Observatory, a Bay of Bengal Coastal Observatory under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, an Intellectual Property and Patent Facilitation Centre, and various projects under the Department of Biotechnology. The Minister also sought support under the National Council for Science Museums and the Ministry of Culture to enhance scientific awareness and outreach in the state.

Dr. Singh encouraged Odisha to explore collaborative opportunities through the Central Government’s Bio-E3 policy by establishing a Bio E-Cell in the state. Highlighting Odisha’s strategic coastal location and abundant natural resources, the Union Minister suggested that the state could play a pivotal role in national missions such as the Deep Ocean Mission, which aims to explore and sustainably utilize marine resources.