Odisha's Ambitious Plan: A Cutting-Edge Science City on the Horizon

Bhubaneswar's Vision for a Science City

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is actively pursuing Central support to establish a modern Science City in the state. During a recent meeting in New Delhi, Odisha's Science and Technology Minister, Krushna Chandra Patra, proposed a generous allocation of 100 acres for this ambitious project. The initiative aims to ignite scientific interest, promote innovation, and enhance educational opportunities, especially for the younger generation.

In addition to the Science City, Patra presented several significant proposals, including the creation of an Astronomy Observatory, a Coastal Observatory for the Bay of Bengal under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, and an Intellectual Property and Patent Facilitation Centre. He also requested assistance for various projects linked to the Department of Biotechnology and initiatives under the National Council of Science Museums and the Ministry of Culture.

The proposed Science City is envisioned as an interactive center featuring cutting-edge exhibits, engaging learning spaces, and advanced research facilities. Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, responded positively to the proposals, indicating that Union government officials would engage in further discussions to finalize the details. He also suggested enhancing Odisha's existing scientific infrastructure, including CSIR laboratories and space research centers, to support these new initiatives.

Singh encouraged the Odisha delegation to consider partnerships under the Central government's Bio-E3 policy by establishing a Bio E-Cell in the state. He emphasized Odisha's natural advantages, particularly in coastal and mineral resources, and suggested that these could be effectively utilized through national missions like the Deep Ocean Mission for the greater good of society.