CM Sukhu Seeks Centre’s Support for Astronomy Centre, Lavender Promotion and Weather Monitoring in Himachal.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today met Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, and discussed a range of proposals aimed at strengthening science and technology-based initiatives in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the state’s remote and tribal areas.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister apprised the Union Minister of the state government’s proposal to establish a centre for astronomy and astrophysics in the high-altitude tribal regions of Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi, on the lines of the successful astronomical initiatives at Hanle in Ladakh.
Sukhu said the proposed centre would make use of the region’s favourable conditions for astronomical research and observations while providing local youth and students with opportunities to develop an interest in science. He added that the initiative could also create new avenues for sustainable, knowledge-based tourism in the tribal areas of the state.
The Chief Minister also discussed measures to promote lavender cultivation in Himachal Pradesh and sought support from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for expanding demonstration sites for lavender cultivation across the state.
He said wider demonstration sites would help farmers understand suitable cultivation practices, improve awareness about the crop and encourage the adoption of lavender as an alternative and remunerative crop.
Seeking greater exposure to science and technology among students, the Chief Minister requested assistance for establishing science museums in schools located in aspirational blocks of Himachal Pradesh. He said such facilities would promote scientific curiosity among students, provide opportunities for experiential learning and encourage greater interest in science, technology and innovation.
Sukhu also emphasized the need to strengthen the local weather monitoring network and urged the Union Government to expedite the installation of automatic rain gauges in every gram panchayat and automatic weather stations at the block level.
He said the initiative would provide accurate and real-time weather data at the panchayat and block levels, strengthen scientific weather monitoring and enable farmers to access precise, location-specific information for better planning and informed decision-making.
The meeting also covered various other issues related to strengthening science and technology-based interventions in Himachal Pradesh, with particular emphasis on expanding the benefits of scientific research, innovation and modern technology to remote and tribal regions of the state.
Dr. Jitendra Singh responded positively to the issues and proposals raised by the Chief Minister and assured that all the demands would be considered sympathetically. He also assured of extending all possible support and cooperation to Himachal Pradesh from the Ministry.
Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant, Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Principal Resident Commissioner Ajay Kumar and other senior officials were present at the meeting.
