Srinagar, Oct 29: Minister for Science and Technology, Satish Sharma, convened a review meeting today to discuss the ongoing initiatives and future plans of the Department of Science and Technology (S&T) in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting took place at 2:00 PM in Committee Room, Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, and was attended by the Commissioner/Secretary of the S&T Department, Shri Saurabh Bhagat, IAS, along with other senior officials.
Commissioner/Secretary Saurabh Bhagat welcomed the Minister and provided a comprehensive presentation about the Department’s activities. Dr. Nasir Shah, Additional Director of JK Science Technology & Innovation Council (JKST&IC), highlighted various schemes, programs, and projects currently being implemented in the UT.
One significant discussion point was the establishment of a Science Centre in Jammu. The Minister directed officials to promptly identify suitable land near Akhnoor and assured full support for its allotment. He was also updated on the Sub-Regional Science Centre in Srinagar, which is slated for inauguration by March 2025.
The Minister was briefed on the progress of the Industrial Bio-Technology Parks in Handwara and Kathua, focusing on construction completion, fund releases, and staff engagement to make these parks operational. He instructed the team to liaise with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, and IIIM-CSIR, Jammu, for expedited completion and handover to JKST&IC.
In addition, the meeting covered various other schemes, including science popularization activities, talent promotion, and the establishment of demonstration farms for aromatic and medicinal plants. Dr. P. R. Dhar, Chief Executive Officer of JAKEDA, presented details on the implementation of solarization schemes for government buildings and initiatives under the Jammu Solar City Mission. The Minister emphasized the importance of renewable energy in agriculture and directed further discussions with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) regarding scheme extensions.
Expressing satisfaction with the functioning of the Department and its subordinate offices, the Minister assured full support in overcoming any challenges faced. He also recognized the Department of Science and Technology, UT of J&K, for receiving an award from MNRE for the highest installed solar and renewable energy capacity. (KDC0
