How is Union Minister Jitendra Singh Advancing Science and Technology in the Northeast?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh's review meeting in Wokha highlights the significant advances in science and technology within the Northeast, emphasizing the region's potential and the importance of expanding scientific initiatives beyond central areas. With a focus on agriculture and tourism, the meeting aims to harness the region's unique strengths for sustainable growth.
Key Takeaways
- Emphasis on expanding scientific initiatives in the Northeast.
- Recognition of local successes in agriculture, particularly under the ODOP scheme.
- Encouragement for youth and women to assume leadership roles.
- Focus on sustainable development through diverse sectors like tourism and film production.
- Vision for India's economic growth driven by the Northeast region.
Wokha (Nagaland), June 17, (NationPress) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, presided over a crucial review meeting concerning all science and technology institutes functioning in the Northeast. The meeting took place in Wokha district, in collaboration with key departments from the Nagaland government.
During this session, Dr. Singh underscored the recent accomplishments within the region, attributing them to an encouraging ecosystem promoted by the government’s strong focus on science, technology, and innovation. He stressed the need to extend scientific progress beyond central regions to include peripheral and remote areas, particularly the Northeastern states, which are brimming with untapped potential.
He pointed out the region’s rich biodiversity, identifying agriculture and related sectors, alongside tourism and film production, as pivotal sectors for sustainable development.
Commending Wokha District, the Union Minister acknowledged its achievements under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, particularly in banana cultivation, which has garnered national acclaim. “This model can be expanded commercially, enhancing the local economy while highlighting the region’s distinctive advantages,” he remarked.
Dr. Singh also announced the launch of a 15-day nationwide saturation campaign for flagship government schemes, aimed at maximizing outreach and inclusion. Reflecting on the transformative journey over the last decade, he noted that youth from Nagaland and Manipur are now actively being recruited in sectors like aviation and hospitality, a remarkable change from the past.
“The recent tragic air crash in Ahmedabad, which involved two young girls from Manipur, serves as a poignant reminder of the region's progress,” he said with deep emotion.
Dr. Singh acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering commitment to the Northeast, revealing that the PM has visited the region over 70 times since 2014. “His objective was to dismantle both mental and physical barriers keeping the region distant from the mainstream,” the minister noted.
He encouraged youth and women to embrace leadership roles. “In the Northeast, women have always taken the lead — from managing fish markets to running households. Now is the moment to establish self-help groups, create livelihoods, and build confidence,” he stated. He reminded attendees that women scientists have steered missions such as Chandrayaan and Aditya-L1, reinforcing the region's tradition of women in leadership.
In closing, Dr. Singh asserted that India’s ascent to one of the top three global economies will be driven by regions like the Northeast that are still unexplored, aligning with the vision for a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The meeting was attended by Nagaland MLA Dr. Chumben Murry, the Chief Minister's advisor, and senior officials from leading scientific institutions under the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and Survey of India, among others.
Point of View
I find that Dr. Jitendra Singh's efforts to elevate the Northeast through science and technology initiatives are commendable. The government's focus on inclusivity and sustainable development aligns with national goals. It's crucial to recognize the region's potential, and with continued support, we can expect significant advancements.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the focus of the review meeting chaired by Dr. Jitendra Singh?
The meeting focused on the advancements in science and technology in the Northeast and emphasized the need to expand scientific initiatives into remote areas.
What initiatives were discussed to promote local economies?
The meeting highlighted the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, particularly the success of banana cultivation in Wokha, as a model for boosting local economies.
How is the government supporting youth and women in the Northeast?
Dr. Singh encouraged youth and women to take leadership roles and emphasized the importance of forming self-help groups to generate livelihoods and confidence.
