The key role played by satellites in modern day science was emphasised at the World Space Week celebrations, held at Zilla Panchayat auditorium in Chamarajanagar on Monday.
Speaking at the inauguration of a workshop and science exhibition that was organised to mark the World Space Week, Deputy Director of U.R. Rao Satellite Centre of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Ramanagouda V. Nadagouda said satellites were essential not only for earth observation and communication services, but were also used for crop surveys, disaster management, border surveillance, assessing the impact of natural calamities and estimating water and forest resources on earth.
World Space Week, which is celebrated every year by the United Nations to commemorate the launch of the first satellite Sputnik and signing of the Outer Space Treaty that establishes the fundamental principles of space activities, was organised in Chamarajanagar jointly by ISRO, Chamarajanagar district administration and Zilla Panchayat, besides the Gravity Science Foundation.
Dr. Nadagouda said the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru is one of ISRO's key units responsible for manufacturing a large number of satellites.
Pointing out that ISRO was one of the five leading space agencies in the world, Dr. Nadagouda recalled the foundation for science and space research laid by Vikram Sarabhai. "If one plans carefully and works patiently, success is inevitable. Students should not miss opportunities," he said, while advising them to learn deeply about the subjects they were passionate about, build good friendships and engage in collective thinking to brighten their future.
He also recalled the immense contribution of Indian space scientist U.R. Rao to the Indian space programme.
Chief Executive Officer of Chamarajanagar Zilla Panchayat Mona Roat urged the students to be curious about different subjects and also understand both advantages and disadvantages of scientific progress.
Ms. Roat pointed out that girls in Chamarajanagar district were performing well in the field of education, but regretted that the number of girls pursuing higher education was declining. She said women had equal opportunities as men to excel in their chosen fields.
Superintendent of Police B.T. Kavitha said science and life were closely intertwined, and science determined the quality of life.