Garhwal Post Bureau
Nainital, 17 Jun: Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd) visited the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) at Devasthal, Nainital, on Tuesday evening and addressed the institute’s scientists, researchers, and officials.
On the occasion, the Governor stated that ARIES is a strong symbol of modern India’s scientific capability, innovation, and self-reliance, and is playing a significant role in establishing the country’s global reputation in the fields of space science and astronomical research.
The Governor said that Devasthal, located amidst the Himalayan valleys of Uttarakhand, is not merely an observatory but an important centre of scientific pursuit and knowledge creation. He noted that the curiosity and knowledge tradition through which India’s ancient sages sought to understand the mysteries of the universe is being carried forward today through modern science, advanced technologies, and research.
Describing the 3.6-metre Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT) as a symbol of India’s scientific achievements and confidence, the Governor said that the combination of Indian talent, modern technology, and global collaboration is enabling the country to achieve new milestones in space science. He praised ARIES for its research on star formation, supernovae, black holes, and other astronomical phenomena.
The Governor commended the dedication and contributions of the institute’s scientists, researchers, engineers, and staff, stating that their efforts are securing India a distinguished place on the global map of astronomical sciences. He emphasised that both science and national security are vital pillars of a strong, capable, and self-reliant nation. He added that today’s youth are not only engaged in scientific research but are also shaping the future direction of India.
The Governor highlighted that Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, and digital technologies form the foundation of future scientific advancements. He expressed satisfaction that ARIES is effectively utilising modern technologies for the analysis of vast astronomical datasets. He also described international scientific collaboration as an excellent example of the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.
The Governor further stated that the Devasthal Observatory has immense potential to promote astro-tourism in Uttarakhand. Besides increasing public interest in science, it can create new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship for local youth. He urged the institute to provide students from remote mountainous regions and border villages with opportunities to visit the observatory periodically so that scientific thinking and a spirit of innovation can be nurtured among them.
He stressed that science cannot remain confined to laboratories and must reach every section of society. This, he said, is essential for fostering logical thinking, scientific awareness, and a culture of innovation among future generations. He expressed confidence that ARIES will continue to contribute significantly to the vision of a Developed India and a Developed Uttarakhand through its scientific excellence and research capabilities.
On the occasion, the Governor also felicitated five research scholars for their outstanding research contributions. The event was attended by Dr Manish Naja, Director of ARIES, along with senior scientists, research scholars, and other officials.
