Odisha CM inaugurates 26th National Children’s Science Congress

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the 26th National Children’s Science Congress (NCSC) at the SOA University here on Thursday.

The Chief Minister said the state government is focusing a lot on development of scientific temper among the children through organization of different science based programmes at various levels.

“We are establishing science parks and planetoriums at district level to create interest among the children in various aspects and science and technology,” said Patnaik.

He said that Bhubaneswar has emerged as the knowledge hub of eastern India.

“Scientific progress is important for nation’s growth. Theme for this year’s NCSC– ‘Science, Technology and Innovation for a Clean, Green and Healthy Nation’ is apt as environment and health have emerged as two major concerns of our time,” Patnaik said.

About 800 delegates from 15 countries are participating in the the 26th National Children’s Science Congress here, said sources.

Children from 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and five Gulf countries will also attend the event. It will conclude on December 31.

The annual event, which provides a platform to children to showcase their creativity and ability to innovate, will showcase technical sessions, exhibitions and discussions.

Children in the age group of 10-17 years including school students and those who are not part of formal education besides differently-abled children will attend the event supported by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC), Government of India.