3D Printers and Scientific Dreams: Maharashtra Goes Full STEAM Ahead

Image Source : Sarang Nerkar

In a pioneering effort towards imparting scientific thinking, the Maharashtra government announced that it would extend the Science and Innovation Activity Centres (SIACs) to all districts. The programme, rechristened after astrophysicist Dr. Jayant Narlikar, will transform Maharashtra into a sciencefriendly state in five years.

Expansion Plan:

23 new SIACs and 28 technology labs to be established
Overall cost of the project amounts to Rs 192 crore
Existing operational bases at Warananagar, Pravaranagar, Amravati, Satara, Baramati, and Devrukh

Educational Impact:

Robotics, 3D printing, coding, and scientific experimentation handson training
Congruence with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 objectives
More than 2.76 lakh visitors and 2,728 trainers at current centers

Rural Inclusion:

Equitable access to sophisticated science equipment for rural students
Community involvement through centers of knowledge beyond school walls

Implementation Strategy:

Collaborative effort with Nehru Science Centre, Homi Bhabha Centre, Vigyan Ashram, and Muktangan Exploratory
Seasoned team of curators, engineers, and former bureaucrats to run operations

Such a development not only keeps the legacy of Dr. Narlikar intact but also strengthens the constitutional responsibility of inculcating scientific temper among citizens. The project can turn Maharashtra into a hub of innovation and inquiry.

Sources: Indian Express, Free Press Journal, MidDay, Times of India, Sakshi Post, Prahaar.in, NewKerala.com