Peren district administration organised a pre-celebration of the 3rd National Space Day with ISRO, NESAC and NGISRSC, featuring talks, a quiz and drone demonstration.
DIMAPUR — The Peren district administration, in collaboration with the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), ISRO and the Nagaland GIS & Remote Sensing Centre (NGISRSC), Planning & Transformation Department, organised a pre-celebration programme of the 3rd National Space Day at the DC’s conference hall, Peren, on August 12.
According to a DIPR report, the programme began with a welcome address by Mhatung Kithan, Senior Project Director, NGISRSC, Planning & Transformation Department.
Dr Victor Saikhom, Scientist/Engineer-SF, NESAC, Department of Space, Umiam, Meghalaya, gave an overview of the programme and highlighted the objectives and significance of the National Space Day pre-celebration. Rajeswari, Scientist/Engineer-SG, SCG, URSC, ISRO, Bengaluru, delivered a presentation on India’s space programme and its applications.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner of Peren, Hiazu Meru, highlighted the significance of National Space Day, observed annually on August 23 to commemorate the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 near the lunar South Pole in 2023.
He said the occasion celebrates India’s achievements in space science, honours the contributions of ISRO scientists, engineers and workers, and inspires young people to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields.
Meru encouraged students to develop a scientific temper based on critical thinking, objective observation and evidence-based reasoning, which he said are essential for progress, prosperity, unity and national integrity.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he emphasised the importance of inclusive and equitable education and called upon all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure opportunities for every citizen to learn, grow and contribute to the nation.
Highlighting Peren’s development priorities, the deputy commissioner identified education, health and the economy as key areas requiring focused attention.
Meru noted the district’s potential in agriculture and stressed the need for value addition, improved market linkages and entrepreneurship to strengthen the local economy.
He also highlighted initiatives in the education and health sectors, including the adoption of Peren Government College and government schools, as well as health institutions such as District Hospital, Peren, CHC, PHC and HWC by the District Planning & Development Board, Peren.
On economic development, Meru stressed the need to promote the “Green Peren” brand, value-added products and the “Green Peren” outlet.
He also called for the promotion of off-season crops on a pilot basis and encouraged entrepreneurship, hard work and dignity of labour among the youth.
Emphasising responsible environmental management, he called for a scientific and rational approach to issues including waste and water pollution, logging and riverbed mining.
The DC further encouraged students to develop a clear sense of purpose and contribute to the all-round development of the district.
He stressed the importance of human resource development, infrastructure, skill development and welfare measures, including the safety and well-being of women and children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
He advised students to prioritise their studies, make responsible choices and stay away from harmful influences, including substance abuse.
The first session concluded with a vote of thanks by Merenwapang, Deputy Project Director, NGISRSC.
The second session featured a quiz competition aimed at enhancing students’ knowledge and interest in space science, India’s space missions and related developments.
The third session included a drone demonstration and exhibition by NGISRSC, providing participants with practical exposure to geospatial technology and remote sensing applications for development purposes. This was followed by technical presentations by Abu Sahin of NESAC, Department of Space, Umiam, Meghalaya, and Chubawati, Senior Analyst, NGISRSC, on the theme, “From Space to Society: How Geospatial Technology is Transforming Nagaland.”
The programme concluded with a valedictory session, during which awards and certificates were presented to quiz winners and participants, followed by closing remarks.
The programme was chaired by Imtilemla of NGISRSC and attended by officials from the district administration, NGISRSC, ISRO, NESAC and other government departments, along with students, teachers and other stakeholders.