TFP Bureau, Raipur, October 8: A delegation of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), led by Dr. N.M. Desai, Director of the ISRO Ahmedabad Centre, paid a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at his residence office in Raipur on Tuesday. The meeting focused on expanding Chhattisgarh’s participation in ISRO’s initiatives, promoting opportunities for the state’s youth, and exploring ways to use space technology to enhance governance and transparency.
Chief Minister Sai described ISRO’s achievements as a matter of pride for every Indian, commending the organisation’s remarkable progress in advancing India’s space science capabilities. He said the state government is actively encouraging innovation and technical education to inspire young people to engage with science and technology. “We want the youth of Chhattisgarh to develop an interest in space research and contribute to the nation’s future missions,” he said.
The Chief Minister suggested that ISRO organize internship and training programmes for students from the state, allowing them to gain practical exposure to space science. He also highlighted several areas where ISRO’s technology could be applied effectively, including agriculture, mining regulation, land encroachment monitoring, and surveillance during paddy procurement.
Dr. Desai briefed the Chief Minister on ISRO’s ongoing projects and its efforts to involve more students in scientific innovation. He informed that several new initiatives will be launched in Chhattisgarh to connect youth with space science and research. The two sides also discussed the possibility of establishing a Space Gallery in the state to promote scientific learning among students.
Dr. Desai invited the Chief Minister to visit the ISRO Ahmedabad Centre and presented him with mementos of recently launched satellites and the Chandrayaan Mission.
During the meeting, the ISRO scientists were particularly drawn to an image of Lord Madheshwar displayed at the Chief Minister’s residence. Intrigued, they enquired about its significance. The Chief Minister explained that Madheshwar Hill, located in Jashpur district, is home to a naturally formed Shivalinga where Lord Shiva is worshipped with great devotion. “It is not only a site of deep faith but also a symbol of Chhattisgarh’s natural and cultural heritage,” he said, presenting photographs of Lord Madheshwar to the visiting scientists as souvenirs.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Subodh Kumar Singh, Secretaries Rahul Bhagat, Reena Babasaheb Kangale, and Dr. S. Bharatidasan, Director Employment and Training Vijay Dayaram K., Director Land Records Vineet Nandanwar, ISRO Group Director Dr. D.K. Patel, Dr. Deepak Kumar Singh, Collector Gaurav Kumar Singh, and other senior officials.
