PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Cabinet minister Satpal Maharaj visited the Vigyan Vani 88.8 FM studio at the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), Vigyan Dham, and recorded his message for the State’s people through the community radio station. He appreciated the ‘Vigyan Setu’ initiative of Vigyan Vani and described it as an important and meaningful effort towards fostering scientific thinking and a scientific temper among the public. The visit took place on the occasion of the Green Energy Conclave organised by Red FM in collaboration with UCOST.
In his message, Maharaj said that Vigyan Vani 88.8 FM is an important platform for taking knowledge and information related to science and technology to the public in a simple, accessible and engaging manner. He emphasised that strengthening scientific temper and scientific awareness in society is essential in the present times. Platforms such as Vigyan Vani can play a significant role in promoting rational thinking by taking reliable, fact-based and evidence-based scientific information to people across the state. He stressed the need to further promote the Vigyan Vani initiative and expand its reach to the maximum number of people. He said that science communication is not merely about disseminating scientific information; it is also an effective means of making scientific thinking an integral part of everyday life and society.
The minister particularly suggested that all State departments should share information about their important programmes, innovations, achievements, public-oriented activities and science- and technology-based initiatives with Vigyan Vani, so that these efforts can be disseminated to a wider audience through radio. He noted that greater outreach of public welfare initiatives and departmental achievements would not only enhance awareness among citizens but also help connect people with government programmes, innovations and scientific initiatives. He further emphasised that important and authentic messages related to disaster management, disaster preparedness, relief and rehabilitation should be disseminated through Vigyan Vani in a timely manner.
Given Uttarakhand’s unique geographical and natural conditions, the rapid dissemination of accurate and reliable information during disasters can play a crucial role in ensuring public safety. He also appealed to the public to conserve energy, adopt environmentally responsible lifestyles and actively contribute to the protection of natural resources. Addressing the youth and students of the state, the minister urged them to listen to Vigyan Vani, ask questions, remain curious about new developments and make reasoning, facts and evidence-based thinking a part of their everyday lives. He said that curiosity, innovation and scientific thinking are the foundations of a progressive, resilient and self-reliant society.
