1st Anniversary of Silkyara Rescue celebrated at Doon Varsity
By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 29 Nov: Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the ‘Silkyara Vijay Abhiyan’ First Anniversary and the 19th State Science and Technology Conference-2024, held at Doon University, on Thursday. On this occasion, they released a book on the Silkyara Victory Campaign and other books, and also watched a short film made on the Silkyara rescue operation.
Chief Guest Lt Gen Singh mentioned that the Silkyara rescue operation is an excellent example of the state’s disaster management capability. He emphasised how the successful rescue of 41 workers trapped in the Silkyara tunnel demonstrated patience, leadership, coordination, and commitment. He also pointed out that this rescue operation, which involved experts from 17 countries, became a global example.
The Governor also stressed the importance of conserving the state’s natural resources and encouraged local community participation in water management. He highlighted ongoing initiatives at Raj Bhavan on water harvesting, which have shown positive results, and called on the public to conserve natural water sources like springs and streams. He mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to protect the environment and contribute to the movement by planting trees.
CM Dhami described the successful Silkyara rescue campaign as a new chapter in disaster management. He thanked Prime Minister Modi for his guidance and support, which led to the successful rescue of 41 workers after 17 days of relentless efforts. The Chief Minister also stated that the operation had become a global subject of study, symbolising collective dedication and technical expertise.
The Chief Minister appreciated the role of the Science and Technology Conference, which has been promoting science and innovation in the state for the past 19 years. He mentioned that, this year, the conference would focus on the conservation of water and natural resources, which is crucial in the context of climate change and growing populations.
He further acknowledged that India has been consistently setting new records in science, from the development of the COVID-19 vaccine to exploring the mysteries of the universe. He stressed that science and technology play a key role in good governance under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The Chief Minister mentioned the ongoing construction of India’s fifth Science City in Dehradun and initiatives like Science and Innovation Centres, Labs on Wheels, and STEM Labs to foster world-class infrastructure for science and innovation in the state.
The Chief Minister also urged universities and institutions to encourage girls to pursue careers in science and technology. He emphasised the government’s efforts to apply advanced technologies in sectors like tourism, agriculture, and the environment, aiming to improve the quality of life of the common people through science and technology.
The event was also attended by Secretary Nitesh Jha, Director General, UCOST, Prof Durgesh Pant, Dr Geeta Khanna, Dr Vinod, and experts and scientists from various fields.
The vote of thanks was proposed by VC Prof Surekha Dangwal.
