Vaidya urges students to embrace science
Nagpur:
of Technological University Vice Chancellor Atul
called for the dissemination of
to become a 'movement' among the masses during the 'Vigyan Abhigna' programme, a two-day science-oriented workshop jointly organised by
Vidarbha Pradesh and Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) recently.
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Addressing an audience of about 150 students, parents, and teachers, Vaidya urged them to stay connected with Vigyan Bharati to foster a scientific outlook. "Develop our own scientific perspective without being afraid of science and with a studious attitude," he said, citing the recently tested missile as an example of the synergy between science and technology.
Vaidya emphasised India's historical scientific legacy, noting that science is embedded in everyday activities, such as in kitchens, and in ancient practices like the Vedic calendar, which accurately uses the moon and sun's rotation.
He advocated teaching science in the traditional Vedic way, stating, "India is a country with a scientific outlook beyond the past."
The event, held at VNIT, saw participation from notable figures, including Maharashtra Animal and Fisheries University (MAFSU) Vice Chancellor Nitin Patil, Nagpur University Pro-Vice Chancellor Subhash Kondawar, and Vigyan Bharati national executive member Naresh Chaphekar.
The workshop honoured winners of the Student Science Festival and selected participants from the science sanskar camp.
MAFSU VC Nitin Patil highlighted science's transformative power, saying, "Things that were considered impossible yesterday were made possible by science moving forward." He noted that scientific advancements, from TV remotes to Covid vaccines and cutting-edge weapons, dispelled ignorance and revealed truths.
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Subhash Kondawar detailed educational initiatives to nurture future scientists, urging students to "choose a subject of their choice, gain expertise in it, and build their future." Vigyan Bharati coordinator Professor Kishore Bhurchandi explained the concept of 'Vigyan Abhigna', emphasising the organisation's role in fostering scientific awareness among youth.
Secretary Prakash Itankar encouraged students to pursue their interests and share knowledge through "teaching and learning."
The workshop began with a lamp-lighting ceremony and included in-depth sessions at the Adhyayavaka Prabhya School at the Institute of Technology Nagpur. Vasundhara Sathe introduced the programme, while Prakash Soni, President of Soni Polymer and guest of honour, praised Vigyan Bharati's efforts. "Remain devoted to science throughout your lives and start innovative businesses," Soni advised students, recalling India's ancient title of "Soneki Chidiya" due to its scientific dominance.
Naresh Chaphekar highlighted Vigyan Bharati's 38 branches across India, including Vidarbha, and its national and international contributions. The workshop concluded on May 20, leaving participants inspired to embrace science.
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