For the First Time in Northeast, Government School Students from BTR Visit ISRO’s Space Applications Centre

BTR, March, 27- In a historic step for education in Northeast India, students from various government schools across the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) had the rare opportunity to visit the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad. 

This milestone visit, facilitated under the leadership of Hon'ble CEM Shri Pramod Boro, marks a significant leap in bringing space education to the grassroots. Along with the 10-member student delegation from BTR, Education Department EM, Shri Wilson Hasda accompanied the team, reinforcing the region’s commitment to promoting scientific learning among students. The delegation included Miss Ribika Basumatary, Miss Nabashmita Daimary, Master Dhanajoy Barman, Master Kironmoy Barman, Master Juman Das, Master Rugung Muchahary, Miss Nikha Deka, Miss Monica Baskey, Miss Nirjala Mochahary, and Miss Baishali Ghosh, all promising students from different Governemnt schools in BTR.

The students embarked on an enriching journey, gaining first-hand knowledge of various aspects of space technology. Their visit began with an engaging tour of Science City, followed by an immersive experience at ISRO’s Space Applications Centre. They explored the applications of aerial imagery and observed high-resolution satellite images of significant locations, including Mount Kailash. A particularly fascinating insight was learning how satellite technology benefits common livelihoods, such as helping fishermen track fish movements, enabling them to optimize their catch rather than relying on traditional methods. This visit provided students with an in-depth understanding of how advanced space applications are shaping various sectors.

A major highlight of this initiative is the ongoing discussion between BTR authorities and ISRO regarding a Students’ Satellite Program, which aims to enable students from BTR’s space labs to collaborate with ISRO in developing and launching their own satellite. This groundbreaking initiative will place BTR at the forefront of space education, setting a new benchmark for government schools across Northeast India. To support this ambitious vision, 12 space labs are being established across BTR to cultivate scientific curiosity and innovation among students. Among these, three space labs have already been completed—Chino Basumatary Memorial Space Lab at Kashikotra HS School, which is the first space lab in any government school in Northeast India, along with space labs at Grahampur HS School and a school in Parbatjhora. These facilities will offer students hands-on learning experiences in space technology, equipping them with knowledge and skills that align with India's advancements in space research.

During their visit, the delegation had the esteemed opportunity to interact with Dr. Nilesh M. Desai, Director of ISRO's Space Applications Centre, who shared valuable insights on India’s space missions, including the success of Chandrayaan-3, the incredible journey of Mangalyaan, and the highly anticipated Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight program. The students were privileged to witness the module that will carry three astronauts into space, a once-in-a-lifetime moment that fueled their aspirations to contribute to India’s space endeavors.

The presence of EM Shri Wilson Hasda and the delegation reaffirmed the BTR government’s steadfast commitment to advancing education and providing students with access to futuristic learning opportunities. For the first time in Northeast India, a government is integrating space education at the school level, ensuring that students from even the most remote areas can engage with cutting-edge technological advancements. Accompanying the delegation were OSD to CEM Shri Nilutpal Kashyap, BTR Development Fellow Shri Suparna Bora, and a team from Vyomika Space Academy, led by CEO, Shri Gobind Yadav.

With Shri Pramod Boro's visionary leadership and the proactive involvement of EM Shri Wilson Hasda, BTR is not only embracing innovation but pioneering a transformative shift in space education, ensuring that students from the region are prepared to dream big and reach for the stars.