BHUBANESWAR: The state government is sincerely exploring the possibility of setting up a satellite launch centre, said Science and Technology minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Monday.
Speaking at the National Space Day celebrations organised by the Odisha Space Applications Centre (ORSAC) here, Patra said preliminary discussions have been held with the central government on establishing a satellite launch facility in Odisha. The proposal was also discussed with Union minister of state for Atomic Energy and Space Science Jitendra Singh during his recent visit to New Delhi, he said.
Patra said the state government was according priority to scientific research and technology-related projects while seeking to foster scientific curiosity among young students. He highlighted the role of ORSAC in generating satellite-based data on agricultural land, groundwater and mineral resources, which he said is helping the government in planning and, in some cases, reducing expenditure.
Patra also pointed to the growing use of drones and other equipment developed by Odisha-based startups in the country’s defence sector.
He said a Science Bhavan, a new ORSAC building and a GIS laboratory would also be established in the state.
ACS, Science and Technology, Chitra Arumugam said science centres and planetariums have been established in Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Rayagada, Ganjam, Balangir and Rourkela.
She urged students to visit them and develop curiosity about space and astronomy. CSIR scientist Prof Shishir Panda urged students to remain focused and persevere in pursuit of their goals.
The event also featured an exhibition, felicitation of startups and awards for winners of school-level competitions. Publications on groundwater conservation, sustainable development goals, ORSAC internship portal and ORSAC projects were released.
