The Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar on the occasion of National Science Day organised a State-level science outreach and awareness programme in Bhubaneswar and seven districts of the State on Thursday.
More than 3000 school and college students participated in the event aimed at exposing the younger students with exciting opportunities in scientific research and its implications on the society and human welfare.
School and Mass Education Minister Badri Narayan Patra inaugurating the programme complemented the efforts of the ILS and the colleges for the unique initiative and mentioned that in the coming days the State Government would support such initiatives.
He also mentioned that the Government is planning to establish science centres at every district to attract talents in science which would lead in building a scientific literate society.
State Higher Education Council Vice-Chairman Ashok Das and RMRC Director Dr Sanghamitra Pati encouraged students to be inquisitive and innovative in their thinking and ensuring effective communication and understanding of science and technology. Naxatra News CMD Prabhat Mallik also spoke.
ILS Director Dr Ajay Parida urged the participants to get involved in scientific research and innovations for addressing challenges of food, nutrition, environment, energy and health security of the nation.
Parida also said that the ILS is going conduct a first of its kind study as its flagship programme in tribal districts in the State to know about their genetic study and their diversity.
On the occasion, debate, quiz and essay competitions were held on the theme of “Science for the People and People for the Science” at Baripada, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Adaspur, Sambalpur, Bargarh and Rayagada as well as at the ILC here.