Dehradun. The Uttarakhand Council for Science and Technology (UCAST) held its General Body Meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan. Eminent scientists, technology experts, and leading entrepreneurs from across the country participated in the meeting both physically and virtually.
The meeting discussed in detail the development of a science and technology-based ecosystem in Uttarakhand and strengthening the scientific temperament. UCAST Director General Durgesh Pant gave a detailed presentation on the Council’s achievements, ongoing programs, and future action plans.
Vigyan Vani and Dissemination of Science through Mass Media
The meeting was informed that programs like “Vigyan Vani,” “Vigyan Drishyam,” and “Vigyan Dhara,” being broadcast on 88.8 MHz, have given new impetus to the popularization of science in the state. This initiative was described as a means of effectively promoting scientific activities.
Emphasis on Mentorship and Increasing Interest in STEM
The Chief Secretary directed that science and technology should be maximized through mentorship programs and interest in STEM subjects should be developed among students and youth.
In addition to promoting science dialogues, podcasts, science magazines, and organized mentorship programs in schools, instructions were also given to scientific institutions to develop SOPs for effective mentorship.
Expansion of District-Level Innovation Centers and Labs on Wheels
The meeting discussed the establishment of the Manaskhand Science Center in Manaskhand, Almora, the Champawat Science Center, and innovation centers in each district.
The Chief Secretary said that given the positive results of the ‘Lab on Wheels’ program, which is currently operating in 13 districts of the state, it should be upgraded and expanded, especially in the mountainous regions. He gave clear instructions to develop Uttarakhand as an ideal scientific ecosystem model.
Participation of Key Institutions
Prof. K.K., Director of IIT Roorkee, was present at the meeting. Pant, Director of the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP) Harendra Singh Bisht, Vice Chancellor of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology Dr. Manmohan Singh Chauhan, along with scientists and experts from across the country joined virtually.
Secretaries Nitesh Jha, Ranjit Sinha, and Ravinath Raman, along with relevant officials, were also present at the meeting.
Goal: Making Uttarakhand a Model State Based on Science
The meeting clarified that by accelerating science, innovation, and technology-based development in the state, youth will be connected to research, startups, and entrepreneurship, thereby establishing Uttarakhand as a strong and ideal scientific ecosystem model.
