Neiba Kronu and Mmhonlumo Kikon with others during the inauguration of Planetarium and Innovation Hub building in Kohima on January 16. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 16
Nagaland’s Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Neiba Kronu today inaugurated the Planetarium and Innovation Hub Building here at Directorate of Science & Technology.
Speaking on the occasion, Kronu said the setting up of Planetarium and Innovation Hub in Kohima would help the young people and students to learn the interesting facts about the universe and all about space and thereby develop scientific temperament among them.
He said that in consultation with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the government will extend all possible help to the department to strengthen science and technology activities in the state.
He said the Science and Technology department plays a very important role towards creating better awareness and inspiring young minds to explore the wonders of science.
Kronu also assured all necessary assistance from the government towards the installation of the required equipment in the Planetarium and Innovation Hub.
Science & Technology, IT& C and NRE advisor Mmhonlumo Kikon informed that catching the young students at the early age will go a long way for the development of science and technology in Nagaland.
He also added that the government is planning to establish a planetarium each in all the District HQs in the near future.
Senior scientific officer Kevitso Kenneth said that Nagaland got its first Science Centre at Dimapur in 2004 and upgraded it with Planetarium and Innovation Hub, 3D theatre etc.
Kohima Science Centre and Innovation Hub with mini science park started in 2015-2016 with a funding of Rs 4.96 Crores under negotiated loan.
He said this Centre will act as a focal point for science and technology dissemination and improve the scientific temper of the masses particularly the young minds and also generate revenue.
The Centre will start functioning at the earliest once the equipments are installed, he said.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by OT Chingmak Chang, principal secretary, Science & Technology department while vote of thanks was proposed by Wonchio Odyuo, director, science & technology department.
Planetarium
The department stated that the planetarium (Space Education Centre) will provide a unique opportunity to bring various aspects of astronomy by simulating a dynamic sky in a digital environment. Visitors can actually see the performance of nature on its cosmic stage rather than being told about it.
Measuring 8 metre in diameter, the Space Education centre dome will have a seating capacity of 50. The hall will have a special digital projector that can incorporate real images/videos of cosmic events in the programme for immersive experience.
The Space Education Centre will create awareness about important issues in science; apart from providing effective environment for free choice science learning.
Innovation Hub
The Innovation Hub promises to provide facilities to nurture new ideas and help develop inquisitive perspective among the youth.
The Innovation Hub will have innovation resource centre and design studio, electrical and electronic lab, mechanical lab, biochemistry and physics lab, robotics section, hall of fame and idea lab.
The hub will also serve as a ‘springboard for new ideas and innovation’ and thus will help the society and economy to face future challenges and meet rising aspirations of the growing population.
