Science Congress mulls vigyan doots to educate kids

Concerned over poor knowledge of science among students, particularly in rural areas, the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) is mulling to recommend appointing ‘Vigyan Doot’ at panchayat levels. The association has come up with the idea after witnessing the “success” of other similar schemes such as Shiksha Mitras, Kisan Mitras, Pashu Mitras, Vikash Mitra, Nyay Mitra, Total Sevaks, etc.

“It’s a known fact that awareness of science among students is not in proportion to that of expenditure on this segment. It’s the 103rd year of Science Congress and children are still deprived of basic science education. When they do not know much about the importance of science, how can we expect of bringing children towards this field?” said professor Uma Kant, a permanent council member of ISCA.

Explaining the role of Vigyan Doots (science messengers), Kant said: “These science messengers will go to schools in rural areas and encourage them to develop interest in science by telling stories of successful scientists. Schoolchildren will be provided with literature and games based on the latest technology, which will attract them towards science.”

Kant added: “In India there are so many talented children, but since they don’t get proper and timely guidance, they fail to fulfill their dreams. The science fraternity is banking on this idea to bridge the gap and create a talent pool of young minds.”

“The ISCA will submit the proposal to the Department of Science and Technology (DST), which will further be submitted to PMO. We hope that the PMO will make out a way for the same as the Prime Minister himself has stressed on creating a pool of scientists for indigenous development,” said Professor B Satyanarayana, chairman of the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Science and Technology.

Scientists look at the scheme as a big step towards the promotion of science and employment generation.