Odisha Seeks Centre’s Support for Science City in Bhubaneswar; Dr. Jitendra Singh Assures Consideration

New Delhi, July 3, 2025 : In a significant push to promote scientific innovation and education in eastern India, the Odisha Government has sought central assistance for establishing a state-of-the-art Science City in Bhubaneswar. The proposal was presented during a meeting between Odisha’s Minister for Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare and Science & Technology, Sri Krushna Chandra Patra, and Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in New Delhi on Thursday.

The Odisha Government has earmarked 100 acres of land for the proposed Science City, envisioned as an interactive hub equipped with modern exhibits, immersive learning experiences, and research facilities. The Science City aims to foster scientific curiosity and innovation, particularly among students and young minds.

“This project is a step towards creating a culture of scientific inquiry in the region, and central support will be crucial for its successful execution,” said Minister Patra, as he submitted a formal request to the Union Government.

Centre Welcomes Initiative, Suggests Strengthening Existing Infrastructure

Responding positively to the proposal, Dr. Jitendra Singh assured that the Centre would consider the request with due attention and said that officials would initiate discussions on modalities for moving the project forward. He also recommended leveraging Odisha’s existing scientific ecosystem, including CSIR laboratories and space research centres, to complement new developments.

Broader Scientific Vision for the State

Apart from the Science City, the Odisha Minister presented several other proposals to enhance the state’s scientific capabilities. These included:

• Establishment of an Astronomy Observatory
• A Bay of Bengal Coastal Observatory under the Ministry of Earth Sciences
• An Intellectual Property and Patent Facilitation Centre
• Projects under the Department of Biotechnology
• Collaborations with the National Council for Science Museums and the Ministry of Culture

Dr. Singh encouraged the state to explore opportunities under the Central Government’s Bio-E3 policy by setting up a Bio E-Cell and emphasized Odisha’s unique natural advantages, especially in coastal and mineral sciences, which could be harnessed through national missions such as the Deep Ocean Mission.

Cooperative Federalism for Scientific Progress

The meeting reflects a growing synergy between state and central governments in aligning regional scientific goals with national policy priorities. It underscores the commitment to cooperative federalism in advancing India’s scientific and technological ambitions.

The proposed Science City in Bhubaneswar could serve as a flagship institution in eastern India, inspiring innovation and facilitating public engagement in science for generations to come.