By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 17 Sep: A lecture by Dr Radhika Ramachandran, former Director of the Space Physics Laboratory, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Indian Space Research Organisation, was organised at the Regional Science Centre, Vigyan Dham, here, on the theme “Women Power in Science and Culture”.
The lecture was jointly organised by ITITI and UCOST, today, on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday. The event was initiated with a short movie on the inspirational journey of the great astronaut, Kalpana Chawla. The welcome address was delivered by Tarun Vijay, former MP, and Chairman, Shri Nanda Raj Jat Poorv Peethika Samiti. He said that the success of Chandrayan has attracted many young brains to the science sector. He appreciated the simplicity, commitment and dedication of ISRO scientists. He talked about the mission and vision of PM Mode, especially in the field of Science and Technology. Padma Shri awardee Dr G Madhavan Nair, former Chairman, ISRO, delivered his talk through a video message. Lead speaker of the session Dr Radhika Ramachandran talked about her journey as an ISRO Scientist. She said that in Chandrayan’s 3’s mission, women’s participation was commendable. She also talked about various ISRO missions, challenges, their importance, and future technologies. She said that the focus should be on interdisciplinary research opportunities and acceptance of failure is a part of the journey toward success. She said that India is a youthful country and youngsters should be encouraged to come forward and do research on various sectors of science and technology.
Professor Durgesh Pant, Director General, UCOST, talked about various science popularisation activities and initiatives of the UCOST. He also talked about the importance of science communication skills and commitment for work. This was an interactive session that was followed by two panel discussions, one was on Women in Science and another was on Women in Culture. The panelists Dr CM Nautiyal, Dr Kalachand Sain, GS Rautela, Dr DP Uniyal, Kanchan Dobhal, Dr Hina, Dr Asish, and Shivali Agarwal, from various institutes shared their views, ideas, and experiences on Women Participation in Science and Culture. The event was coordinated by Dr. Piyush Joshi, Incharge RSC, and Dr Reema Pant, Academician, and science communicator. Many academicians, scientists, researchers, and students from eminent institutes, IIRS, CSIR-IIP, Graphic Era University, UPES, Tula’s Institute, KVIMA, ITITI, and UCOST officials were present. More than 300 students participated.
