Bageshwar (Uttarakhand) [India], October 9 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday inaugurated the Fifth Border Hill District Children’s Science Festival at Vivekananda Vidya Mandir Inter College in Mandalsera, Bageshwar.
In a post on X, Dhami stated that teachers who have excelled in the field of science were honored during the event. He also engaged in interactive dialogue with young and child innovators.
"In Bageshwar, during the Fifth Border Mountain District Children's Science Festival-2026, teachers who have excelled in the field of science were honored, along with engaging in dialogue with young and child innovators. On this occasion, important announcements were also made to promote science, technology, and innovation," said CM Dhami.
Organised under the aegis of the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), the two-day festival is witnessing the participation of 240 selected young scientists from Chamoli, Champawat, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, Uttarkashi and Pithoragarh districts.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced ₹1 crore for the Border District Science Festival and related programmes to promote research and innovation. He also announced plans to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the state’s STEM laboratories and establish one Lab on Wheels in every development block.
Additionally, he announced the establishment of science and innovation centres in all districts of Uttarakhand.
"Science and Innovation Centers will be established in all districts of the state, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Labs will be integrated with AI, and Lab on Wheels will be operated in all blocks. In addition, one crore rupees will be allocated for the Border District Science Festival and related programs, a Women's Science and Development Conference will be organised, and necessary steps will be taken to connect schools with robotics and drone education," added CM Dhami.
CM Dhami said the state government is promoting science- and technology-based education in schools while encouraging the adoption of artificial intelligence, robotics and drone technology. He emphasised the need to connect students with modern technologies to prepare them for future challenges and opportunities.
The Chief Minister interacted with the young scientists participating in the festival and answered their questions. He encouraged them to study diligently, work on new ideas, and maintain their curiosity by asking questions.
He said today’s young scientists would become the country’s leading scientists, engineers and researchers in the future, adding that the younger generation would play a crucial role in realising the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Dhami said science festivals organised in remote and mountainous regions provide a platform for students to showcase their talents while fostering scientific temper, creativity and a spirit of innovation.
He urged students to draw inspiration from former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and pursue careers in science and research, contributing to the development of the state and the country.
Emphasising the integration of modern technology into school education, the Chief Minister called for linking robotics and drone technology with the education system. He also highlighted the need to organise a conference on women’s development and science.
He said science and technology are being leveraged to promote innovation, transparency in government services and smart agriculture in the state. A Science City is being developed in Dehradun, while a Science Centre is being established in Champawat, he added.
The Chief Minister said the state government is also promoting local products through the House of Himalayas brand. Efforts are being made to expand self-employment opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, beekeeping and homestays.
During the festival, teachers Kavita Harkotiya, Deep Chand Joshi, Harimohan Aithani and Khayali Dutt were honoured with awards for their outstanding contributions to the field of science. (ANI)
Uttarakhand CM Dhami inaugurates Fifth Border Hill District Children’s Science Festival in Bageshwar
