Top News

Guwahati, Mar 10: On Tuesday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his worries regarding the insufficient number of students from Assam engaging in core science disciplines. He noted that despite the considerable growth in the state's scientific and technical infrastructure over the last ten years, student interest in advanced scientific studies remains disappointingly low.

“Our society still lacks a scientific mindset. Even with the available facilities and opportunities for science education, the enrollment in core science subjects is not encouraging,” the Chief Minister remarked during the inauguration of the Assam Science City at Tepesia in Sonapur.

He emphasized the expansion of science and technology institutions in the region, mentioning that Assam is home to several esteemed centers of learning and research, including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, the National Forensic Sciences University, and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong, among others.

However, he pointed out that the state's contribution to national scientific organizations like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is limited, as fewer students are choosing to pursue advanced scientific education.

The Chief Minister highlighted the necessity for local scientists to tackle region-specific issues, particularly those concerning climate and agriculture. He stated, “If dry weather persists until April, Assam's tea production could decline by nearly 30%. This is a local issue that requires local scientists to address it, not American experts.”

Sarma stressed that enhancing scientific capabilities is crucial for the state's long-term progress. “To strengthen our state, we must harness our human resources effectively,” he added.

During the event, Sarma officially opened the Assam Science City at Tepesia, a project developed through a collaboration between the Assam government and the National Council of Science Museums.

The facility, constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs 300 crore on 250 bighas of land, is larger than the science museum in Kolkata, marking it as one of the most significant science infrastructure projects in eastern India.

The newly launched science city features two major galleries, the Eureka Pavilion and Space Odyssey, with plans for additional attractions like a Science Discovery Centre and a Science Park in the future.

A view from Science City Museum in Sonapur (Photo: @himantabiswa/X)

Sarma mentioned that the facility incorporates immersive experiences utilizing augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. “Visitors can engage in space exploration, take virtual tours of the moon, witness Mission Mangal, explore the astronomy gallery, and even view Kaziranga National Park through AR and VR,” he explained.

CM Sarma experiencing augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies in the science city museum (Photo: @himantabiswa/X) 

He also noted that the science city will include a scientific recreation of the historic Battle of Saraighat.

Additionally, he virtually inaugurated five District Science Centres located in Amingaon, Majuli, Silchar, Kaliabor, and Bongaigaon, each equipped with science galleries, digital planetariums, and auditoriums.

The Chief Minister acknowledged that maintaining such facilities will necessitate regular updates to keep pace with scientific advancements. “Science is ever-evolving. Just as the museum in Kolkata regularly updates its exhibits, we will also need to refresh our displays here periodically,” he stated.

Sarma proposed the formation of an advisory committee comprising leading scientists to recommend timely upgrades and ensure the facility remains relevant.