Dr Jitendra inaugurates ‘Youth Innovation Hub’

‘Backward District narrative transformed to Aspirational Distt’

Excelsior Correspondent
DHOLPUR (RAJASTHAN), July 8 : In a bid to bridge the gap between science and society, Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh today inaugurated the “Science Centre” in the Aspirational District of Dholpur in Rajasthan, positioning it as a “Youth Innovation Hub” in the region.
The Minister also highlighted how PM Narendra Modi had transformed the “Backward District” narrative to “Aspirational District”.
Addressing a large gathering of students, teachers, and local officials, Dr Singh said the Centre, developed by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in partnership with the National Institute of Immunology (NII) and the National Science Centre, is part of a broader national initiative to establish science museums in aspirational districts across India.
“This is not merely an infrastructure project. It is a mission to inspire scientific thinking and to empower the children of Dholpur to dream big-whether it’s solving a local problem or reaching for the stars,” Singh said.
The Dholpur Science Centre, located in one of India’s aspirational districts, is designed to provide hands-on science experiences through interactive exhibits, STEM-based learning modules, and a platform for young minds to explore innovation and local entrepreneurship. According to officials, the Centre embodies the Government’s ‘Vigyan Setu’ concept-a bridge connecting scientific institutions with under-served regions.
He underscored the DBT’s BioE3 vision-Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment-which aims to use biotechnology as a tool for rural empowerment and sustainable growth. He noted that the same spirit runs through the Centre in Dholpur, which will also facilitate capacity building for potential startups emerging from smaller towns.
Recounting India’s recent scientific achievements, including astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s participation in the Axiom Mission-4 to the International Space Station, the Minister said such milestones are a reminder to young Indians that “science can take you anywhere-from your village to outer space.”
He urged educational institutions and policymakers to integrate flexibility in science education, drawing attention to the National Education Policy which now allows students to change subjects based on aptitude and interest. “We must remove barriers that prevent students from pursuing what they are truly passionate about,” he added.
Officials from DBT, the Rajasthan Government, and scientific institutions were present at the event, which also featured live demonstrations and science-based models created by school students. The Minister praised the efforts of students who explained complex scientific concepts with confidence and clarity.

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