Science Express Concludes its Journey with a Call to Youth to Come Forward to Make Modern India

After the successful run since 30 October 2007, the Science Express, a state-of-the-art Science exhibition on a unique train, today completed its journey with a concluding ceremony held in New Delhi. During the over 7 months of its journey across the country, the exhibition was seen by over 2.2 million visitors and about 15,000 students participated in Kids’ Lab.

This prestigious Indo-German joint venture, coordinated by the Rashrtiya Vigyan evam Prodyogiki Sanchar Parishad (National Council for Science & Technology Communication), has several important partners including Federal Government of Germany. The exhibition has been developed by the Max Planck Society, a Noble laureate powerhouse and the Kids’ Lab has been set up by BASF India, the Chemical Company. Vikram A. Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC) is responsible for management of the Science Express throughout the country.

Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Shri Kapil Sibal, lauded the efforts of all the players who made this wonderful experience possible and helped to take science to the doorsteps of the people. Terming it as one amongst the most successful programmes in the joint efforts of India and Germany to attract youth to study science and pursue careers in research, he said that through this innovative approach, both the Governments along with global champions of science, technology and innovations, have conveyed a strong message and a call. The message is about the strength of long-term collaboration and partnership between India and Germany. The call is to our youth to come forward for the creation of a new, vibrant and modern India.

The Minister said, “I have always dreamt of a nation that its foundation deeply rooted in our rich heritage and history. It should be built on the pillars of knowledge, enclosed by walls of social inclusion and distributive justice. It should bear a roof painted with ambitions for success and excellence. Modern India should be successful and a happy home for all”.

Dr. T Ramasami, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Mr. Julius G Luy, Charge D’ Affaires, Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany and Prof. Mehlhorn, Vice President, Max Planck Society were also present on the occasion.

The Science express strives to take modern research out of the lab and reveal just how relevant science is to everyday life. Thronged by students, the science express fills the void between classroom teaching and practical exposure. With details in plenty, the sight of elated students at the end of the visit to this unique exhibition is common.

Visitors of this futuristic exhibition learnt how science is enabling society to face the global challenges of the 21st century.

The exhibition will most likely be refurbished and then embark on a second run for another 6 months.

More information available on www.science-express.com

Source: Press Information Bureau
Date: June 04, 2008