World Space Week inaugurated at KIIT

Bhubaneswar: Space science has significant practical benefits for the society. It has enabled modern communication to reach the unreached, helping the remotest corner to join the mainstream, said Governor Dr. S C Jamir while inaugurating the World Space Week-2017′ at KIIT University here on Friday.

“The Indian space programme has had scripted many monumental successes over the years. Today, we rank sixth after the US, Russia, France, Japan and China in the world, in satellite launching into low earth orbit,” Dr. Jamir said in his inaugural address.

“Satellite technology is playing a big role in our endeavour to realise the vision of Digital India,” he added, while appreciating the scientists and technocrats for the achievement.

Director, Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), SHAR, ISRO Dr P Kunhikrishnan said making significant progress after a humble beginning in 1960s, India has become one the leading countries in the field of space science and satellite technology,

“Total 62 launch vehicles have lifted off Sriharikota, India’s only ‘Space Port’, including breakthrough missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan,” he informed, adding that India is the only country to have launched a Mars mission in the first attempt.

Earlier, in his welcome address, KIIT & KISS founder Prof. Achyuta Samanta thanked SDSC for choosing the varsity for this prestigious event.

Vice Chancellor, KIIT University, Prof. Hrushikesha Mohanty also spoke on the occasion.

Among others, scientists from ISRO, an academic delegation from Daffodil International University, Bangladesh, and a large number of students attended the inaugural ceremony.

Deputy general manager, range operations, SDSC Dr. Ajit Kumar Nath proposed the vote of thanks.

On the occasion, the governor opened an exhibition that showcases models of different rockets and satellites launched by SHAR and other space science-related display materials.

The two-day long event featured talks on space programme by eminent personalities on the inaugural day.

Quiz, competitions for school and college students, interactive session with ISRO scientists and video
shows are the other attractions of the event.