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Annual Report 2007-2008 National
Council For Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) Rashtriya
Vigyan Evam Prodyogiki Sanchar Parishad (RVPSP/NCSTC) is mandated to communicate
science & technology to masses. The programmes of the Council aim at building
capacity for informed decision making in the community. RVPSP encourages research
in areas of S & T communication; training of communicators; development of
books, manuals, posters, exhibitions, films, radio programmes, and television
programmes on different facets of science & technology; and recognizing outstanding
efforts through awards and incentives all over the country. New
Initiatives Science Express – “Vigyan
Ke Teen Sopan – Khoj, Shodh Aur Bodh”
The
Parishad has developed an exhibition train “Science Express” in collaboration
with Max Planck Society, Germany. This state of the art exhibition, akin to their
well known ground based “Science Tunnel”, will take visitors to a fascinating
expedition into different issues of Modern Science through 12 thematic modules.
The presentation is through interactive plasma screens, TV monitors, PCs etc.
The special train would travel to about 57 selected destinations for 9 months.
Colleges and schools in the districts are being mobilized to visit the Science
Express. The exhibition has a number of exciting activities including the famous
KIDZ LAB of BASF India, and on the spot competitions. The train
was flagged off on October 30, 2007 from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi
by Dr. Man Mohan Singh, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India and Dr. Angela Merkel,
Her Excellency, Chancellor of Germany (Figure 8.9). 
Figure
8.9 : Dr. Manmohan Singh and Dr. Angela Merkel Flagging off Science Express
Year
of Planet Earth – National workshop for Planning Activities The
Parishad has decided to celebrate Year of Planet Earth-2008 during 2007-2009 with
‘Understanding Planet Earth’ as the main theme. A national workshop
aimed at drawing a comprehensive plan for the same was organized in association
with NCSTC-Network. The workshop has provided the blueprint for the triennial
“Understanding Planet Earth” project which will take place in all states/UTs
as partners. The programme is aimed at creating a value shift in community practices
in Earth Care and critical S&T infusion in public towards a knowledge society. Regional
Meets for Orientation/ Understanding Planet Earth The
Parishad has organized 4 interactive regional meets in order to sensitize the
field level organizations to implement the outreach activities of “Planet
Earth Campaign”. Around 800 participants attended these meetings. The resource
persons interacted with the participants in each of these regional meets and the
modules such as Sanitation and Water Literacy; Understanding Weather, Climate
Change and Global Warming; Health and Nutrition; Disaster Preparedness; Urbanization
and Resource Optimization; Soil Management and Land Productivity; and Coastal
and Marine Ecosystems were discussed.
Weather
& Climate Change A major component under the Outreach Campaign
of International Year of Planet Earth programme is on understanding of weather
patterns and climate change and its effects. The programme aims to create a better. understanding
and awareness about physics and chemistry of the atmosphere, weather, climate
change, natural hazards, sustainable living, etc. Map
Learning & Resource Optimization The Parishad has taken
major initiatives to celebrate the International Year of the Planet Earth during
2007-2009. Learning to read and make maps and utilize this as a tool for decision
making in resource allocation and utilization will form an important component
of the initiative. To conceptualise, design and give shape to the programme a
consultation was organised and a draft plan was formulated. The main objectives
of the programme are (i) understanding basic parameters like scale, direction,
distance etc., as well as meaningful internalisation of different features represented,
themes and symbols; (ii) developing skills to retrieve maximum information from
maps and to convert these into ground reality (map to ground); (iii) developing
ability to convert ground reality into maps (Mapping); and (iv) understanding
the basics of projection (3D Earth to 2D Map). The programme
would be targeted to the prospective resource persons — interested science,
geography and economics teachers of Higher Secondary, Under-graduate levels; community
(urban and rural areas), occupational/activity groups like farmers, housewives,
senior citizens, doctors, engineers and local level decision makers – both
at the political and administrative levels. The entire activity would be broadly
divided into five modules – Foundation Module, Module I, II, III and Advance
Module. Resource Material proposed would include Books, Base maps- Survey of India
topo-sheets (at least 1:50,000), cadastral maps, satellite images, Visuals for
training and sensitization, Kit – for training, GIS software: People’s
GIS, GRAM++, and Hand held GPS devices, etc. For development of the resource material,
two national level workshops were organised by Socio-Economic Awareness and Environment
Protection (SEAEP), Guwahati and Science Communicators Forum (SCF), Kolkata during
July 2007 and September 2007 respectively. Grameen
Jagriti Initiatives for sensitization of common man on S&T related
issues that affect his daily life, like safe practices in agriculture, rational
use of pesticides and fertilizers, disaster preparedness, water and sanitation,
etc. have been launched on a pilot mode. Sensitization
Workshop on Safety measures from Harmful effects of Pesticides/ farming accidents
To create awareness amongst farming community on safety measures
in use of pesticides and farm machinery, a training programme was organized at
Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana for officers of Krishi Vigyan Kendras,
village leaders and voluntary activists in the area. The lectures, demonstrations
and discussions on topics like usage and application techniques of pesticides;
safe use of pesticides and their environmental implications; pesticides residues
and their environmental implications; judicious use of herbicides, fungicides;
safe storage of grains; accidents during farming operations; pesticides poisoning;
snake bite, dog bite and their treatment etc were organized. Earth,
Climate and Farming Two awareness workshops were implemented
for village leaders and voluntary activists of Tamil Nadu. The workshops aimed
to create awareness on weather and climate, pest-weather relationship, weather
based agro advisories, impact of rising ambient temperature on livestock, fishery
and forestry, etc. Visits to meteorological centre, debates on traditional and
modern methods of agriculture formed part of the intervention. ‘Vaad
Vivaad’ Karyakaram To initiate a dialogue on local S&T
related issues which affect day to day life, a new programme has been initiated.
First the issue/problem(s) faced by people were assessed by inviting the views
of public and then an awareness workshop will be organized with the help of experts
of the particular field and enlightened people will be re evaluated/assessed in
order to know the impact of awareness workshop. One pilot project for Kota district
of Rajasthan was carried out. Science Communication
Archives Madhavrao Sapre Smriti Samachar Patra Sangrahalaya
Evam Shodh Sansthan (Madhavrao Sapre National Media Repository & Research
Centre), Bhopal (M.P.) is offering services of a science communication archives
to preserve and retrieve science manuscripts, publications and other such materials
to facilitate scholars and researchers in science communication to get authentic
information on this subject. The archives has been able to attract a number of
rare manuscripts and publications on various aspects of science and technology
and has preserved them. 2. Major Programmes National
Children’s Science Congress-2007 The 15th National Children’s
Science Congress (NCSC) was organized in all 35 states and UTs of the country.
The national event 2007 was held at Vidya Pratisthan, Baramati, Pune, Maharashtra
during 27th – 31st December, 2007. The focal theme of year 2007 congress
was “Biodiversity – Nurture Nature for our Future”. Around 600
team leaders of 10–17 years of age group screened through districts and state
level congresses, made their presentations at the national event. Around 80 projects
selected best at state level also participated in 95th annual session of Indian
Science Congress held during 3rd – 7th January, 2008 at Andhra University,
Visakhapatnam. The Kishore Vaigyanic Sammelan was inaugurated by Hon’ble
Former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on 5th January, 2008. In addition
to the child scientists from National Children’s Science Congress stream,
children from Jawahar Lal Nehru National Science Exhibition conducted by NCERT,
Lead India 2020 and local children drawn from different district of Andhra Pradesh
also participated. National Teachers’ Science
Conference-2007 The 4th National Teachers’ Science Conference
(NTSC) was organized during 22nd – 25th September, 2007 at Rajiv Ganhdi Navodaya
Vidyalaya, Dehradun. The focal theme of NTSC was “Environmental Education
for Better Future”. Around 300 participants from the stream of secondary
and senior secondary teachers, educators, university/college teachers working
for school level education took part in NTSC. Oral as well as poster presentations
were made by selected participants. Year of Physics:
Follow up Activities (a) State level programmes were organized
in 15 states by State S&T Councils/Departments including training programmes
for resource persons at state level, activities/competitions for school children,
activities for college students and lectures/demonstrations in the respective
state. The guidelines in this regard were designed and accordingly programmes
were distributed for N-E states, medium, small and large states. (b)
‘Appreciating Physics in Everyday Life’ The activities
undertaken in this area included (i) An exhibition with 14 flex banner (3’
x 5’ print area each) on the theme “Appreciating physics in everyday
life”; in-house activities like - “Enjoy the excitements in physics”;
Physics learning camps; Physics in Daily Life: A national workshop; Making physics
Fun – About 10 orientation programmes on low-cost physics teaching aids;
Bhotiki-Kal, Aaj or Kal; “science education beyond classrooms”–A
mobile exhibition organized by Science Centre, Gwalior in more than 32 districts
of Madhya Pradesh; and ‘Lights and Shades of Science’ – Science
Jamboree. 3. Science Communication Research 7th
National Science Communication Congress (NSCC-2007) Indian Science Writers’
Association organized the 7th National Science Communication Congress (NSCC- 2007)
at Indian National Science Academy, New Delhi during December 05-09, 2007 on the
focal theme “Technology Communication & Development”. The participants
included scientists, journalists, science communicators, teachers and students
of science communication and mass communication courses. The deliberations were
divided into 5 technical sessions. A special workshop for encouraging interaction
between young researchers and science communication experts was also held. Over
200 delegates participated in the Congress and presented their papers. An exhibition
of science periodicals in Indian languages was also arranged on the occasion.
Scientific Understanding among People: A Survey Study
at Ardh Kumbh 2007 A survey study during Ardh Kumbh Mela 2007 at Allahabad
on scientific understanding among people was done by Science Communication Unit,
National Institute of Science, Technology & Development Studies (NISTADS),
New Delhi and Jahangirabad Media Institute (JMI), Barabanki, UP. About 5000 respondents
were interviewed using open-ended questionnaire covering various areas of knowledge.
The questionnaire contained 35-45 questions categorized in four areas of scientific
knowledge - ‘Astronomy’, ‘Geography’, ‘Health and Hygiene’
and ‘Agriculture’. The analysis of the data collected during the survey
revealed that factors such as socialization in modern system of education, the
nature of occupation, the gender, age and the cultural environment of the respondents
were significantly correlated with the response variable. 4.
Attracting Youth to Careers in Science Motivational Programme
for Talented School Students Talented students of senior secondary schools
were selected on the basis of their performance in Board Exams for motivational
programme with renowned scientists. 30 students visited science departments of
Saurashtra University; Indian Institute of Geomagnetism, Mumbai; and Central Salt
and Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar and many other institutes and
interacted with senior scientists. Another batch of 30 students visited
Biotechnology Department, Physics Department, Geology and Pharmacy Departments
besides many other laboratories of Barkatullah University, M.P. Scientists discussed
career choices and characteristics/ aptitude necessary for becoming a good researcher.
Similar programmes were also organised at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
and North East Institute of Science & Technology (NEIST), Jorhat. 
Fig.
8.10 : Students visiting Pharmacy Deptt. under Motivational Programme.
Agrasar Lecture-Demonstration Series Eminent scientists, give
popular S&T lectures and demonstrations under this initiative. The main objective
of the programme is to encourage scientific curiosity among youth, develop appreciation
of beauty of science in daily life and create scientific awareness about current
S&T issues. Stella Maris College, Chennai organised a series of 20 such lectures.
Topics of interest like Food & Health, Water borne diseases, Safety in Science
Laboratories, Disaster Management and Global Warming were highlighted through
lectures. These were organised at Tuticorin, Chidambaram, Sriperambudhur districts
of Tamil Nadu. Initiative for Research and Innovation
in Science (IRIS) In order to promote and nurture the invention
and innovation among youths and students of this country, the department joined
hands with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Intel India and launched
this activity. Entries for innovative ideas from the age group of 6 – 35
years have been invited through news paper advertisements and workshops and meetings
with various governments, non-government organizations involved in science communication.
The entries received were scrutinized by a panel of experts. Selected entries
were invited to participate in regional fairs. Potential entries were mentored
through a rigorous process with the help of experts. The national fair was held
at IUCCA, Pune, Maharashtra during 6th – 8th December, 2007. Selected entries
will represent India at the Intel ISEF 2008 at USA. 5.
Science Communication through Cultural Events Science
and Health Communication through Folk Media Heart Care Foundation of India,
New Delhi is running a countrywide campaign for science and health communication
especially on nutrition under a nationally coordinated project of the Parishad
using various folk forms for taking messages of nutrition related issues to the
people at large. The campaign includes training and orientation of performing
groups in different states, folk performances in various states, and performances
at national level in Delhi/ New Delhi. This 10 months’ campaign involves
street plays, puppetry and folk songs, etc., as tools for communication. The programme
was implemented in association with Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Health
& Family Welfare, Govt. of India. 6. S&T for
Visually Challenged (a) An action learning project on problems faced by
the blind, the partially blind and low vision children of middle school in learning
science, mathematics and associated subjects is being implemented by Concerned
Action Now (CAN), Delhi in north and western regions of India. Both conventional
and participative research methods are being used in the project. (b) Audio
Programmes for Visually Impaired students on ‘Science in Daily Life’
is being produced by SAMPARK. Scripts for 52 episodes have been developed and
vetted. After field testing and modification, final production would be done.
(c) “Braille Audio Package” in Hindi is being developed by STEPS
for blind children to introduce them to the subject of Ornithology and the relationship
of common bird species with man through a series of short stories in Braille and
audio cassettes/CDs. Scripts have been written and after vetting, these will be
field tested before final production. 7. Field Programmes
Women & Child–Health & Nutrition Programme
A comprehensive programme for school/college and university
students & teachers, women of all age groups (adolescent girls, house wives,
pregnant women, lactating mothers, old ladies) and the general public has been
conceptualized, formulated and supported including: (a) ‘Science
for Healthy Mother & Child’ by Voluntary Institute for Community Applied
Science – VICAS, Allahabad is being organized with the main objective of
bringing behavioral changes among the girl child of up to 10 years and women of
reproductive age group (16-45 years) for better health and nutrition. (b)
Reproductive & Child Health (RCH) awareness programmes for adolescent girls
and women were organized in Mokalur, Chhitauni, Amba, Mustafabad of Varanasi district
of U.P. by Centre for Social Research, New Delhi. The activities include rapport
building with the community, the panchayat, block and district level health functionaries
and teachers of local school, baseline sample surveys, training of motivators,
formation of community watch group, awareness generation activities, impact assessment,
etc. Popularization of Astronomy using mobile
planetarium A project was supported to PAHAL–Uttarakhand
based voluntary organization for acquiring mobile planetarium to popularise astronomy
and its related activities in rural schools of Uttarakhand. Mobile planetarium
is being acquired from NCSM, Kolkata. Two resource persons have been identified
to undertake training from NCSM, Kolkata to carryout astronomy activities in Uttarakhand.
The activity has been started from District Pithoragarh with effect from 2nd October,
2007. Perfect Health Mela The Parishad participated
in the Perfect Health Mela organized by Heart Care Foundation of India during
27th October – 4th November, 2007 in New Delhi. The Parishad put up its activity
corners that attracted thousands of visitors. Explaining
Science behind Miracles The basic objective of this programme is to make
people aware of tricks and so called miracles and save them from cheating and
misbeliefs. During the workshop, the participants were trained in demonstrations
of so-called miracles followed by their explainations including over 100 tricks,
generally shown by self styled god-men. Short duration projects from Punjab, Orissa,
Karnataka were supported. National Science Day Science
Day is celebrated throughout the country with series of programmes from a day
to month long duration with different activities like debates, quizzes, exhibitions,
lectures, etc., involving college and school children. The research institutions/
laboratories have been organizing ‘Open Day/ Week’ for creating awareness
among public. The theme suggested for NSD-2008 is “Understanding Planet Earth”.
Science Exhibitions The Parishad
coordinates science exhibitions in different parts of the country to generate
science awareness amongst school children, science teachers and common people
in general. During 2007-08, the Parishad participated in various science exhibitions
in different places including Jaipur, Delhi, Bhopal, etc. Science
Communication through Digital Media A number of training programmes
were organized for science communicators enabling them to make use of digital
media, i.e. web journalism, multimedia, web cast, CD, etc., for science communication.
Yadava College, Madurai (T.N.) organized a similar programme at Madurai during
December 10-16, 2007 and provided training to some 40 participants from different
parts of the state. Swadeshi Science Movement, Kochi in association with Cochin
University of Science & Technology, Kochi organized similar programmes in
Kerala. 8. Information Dissemination Web
Portal on Planet Earth A web portal (www.understandingplanetearth.in)
to exchange and depict planet earth related outreach activities has been developed.
This service will help in providing all the state councils, research institutions,
science based voluntary organisations and RVPSP, a convenient access to information
related to planet earth activities. The website is being enriched with reports,
articles, newsletters on various facets of planet earth. ‘NCSTC Communications’–RVPSP
newsletter is also available on this website. Database
& Website on Science Popularisation Sites Alternative Futures–a
Delhi based NGO, is engaged in development of the permanent science popularisation
or ‘science tourism’ sites (science museums, science centers/cities/parks,
planetarium, aquariums, and visits to scientific institutions, artisan and craft
museums and zoological parks) which contribute a great deal towards unfolding
the beauty and mystic of science to common man. 9.
Publications NCSTC Communications RVPSP
brings out NCSTC Communications, bilingual (Hindi and English) monthly newsletter
which has 12800 subscribers which include academic institutions, research laboratories,
members of parliament, science based organizations/ institutions and individual
science communicators across the country connecting all of them through various
columns of the newsletter and serving as a forum for expressions of thoughts and
sharing experiences on various aspect of science and technology communication.
The newsletter is a window of Parishad’s activities, forthcoming programmes
and readers’ feedback. Indian Journal of Science
Communication The Parishad has been supporting
publication of a half yearly international research journal on science communication
titled “Indian Journal of Science Communication”, through Indian Science
Communication Society (ISCOS), Lucknow. The objective of the journal is to provide
a forum for researchers and practitioners of science communication for exchanging
their research findings and views on various aspects of science and technology
communication. First of its kind in this sub-continent, the journal is receiving
subscription requests from different organizations and individual science communicators
across the world. Current and back issues of the journal are now accessible at
the website www.iscos.org.
Popular Science Periodicals
in Indian Languages The Parishad continued support for publication
of popular science magazines including Nirantar Soch (Punjabi), Vaigyanik Drishtikon
(Hindi), Arivukkan (Tamil) and Vigyan Aapke Liye (Hindi). The GRD Trust, Coimbatore
was supported for bringing out a popular science monthly in English ‘Wide
Spectrum’. The magazine reproduces articles of lasting value from newspapers
and also carries a wide range of popular science articles, features and columns.
In addition, Virat Surya (Hindi, Marathi and English); Arivial Poonga (Tamil);
Bigyan Jeuti (Assamese) and Vigyan Katha (Hindi) were also supported. Science
Activities – Do, Enjoy and Learn Books in three volumes titled as
“Science Activities – Do, Enjoy and Learn” containing 100 low cost
or no cost experiments on physical sciences were brought out in collaboration
with Association for Research and Training in Basic Science Education, Nagpur.
10. Science on Radio and Television Science
for Women’s Health – through community radio Exploratory workshop
inviting station directors of community radio stations from various parts of the
country was organized at IIMC, New Delhi by CEMCA. 13 active stations in various
universities were selected for production and broadcast of 15 minutes programmes
that focused on women’s health. The programme is supplemented by health camps,
doctors’ visits, phone–in, interviews, health cards, nukkad natak, etc.
These stations are developing programmes and are being monitored. Ignited
Minds II A 13 parts TV series based on innovative projects of Children’
Science Congress is under production. The series will be telecast on Doordarshan
to enthuse children about brilliant scientific ideas. Another 13 parts episode
based on challenges on day-to-day life is also under production. Science
News line To highlight and showcase country’s S&T
achievements, Science Newsline video news capsules have been developed. The stories
in Hindi project recent achievements of scientists in leading national laboratories,
research institutions and innovators in India. Topics cover new frontiers of S&T
like nano technology, surgery, micro-electronics and so on. Each capsule is of
150 second duration. Some of these are being webcasted on the official website
<www.dst.gov.in>. These are being shown on DD News as part of the news magazine
programme “Aankhon Dekhi”. 11. Environmental
Programmes Module on “Learn and Understand Microorganisms”
A science kit entitled “Microorganisms: Let us Observe and Learn”
has been developed jointly by Assam Science, Technology and Environment Council
(ASTEC), Guwahati and Botanical Hobby Centre of Cotton College, Guwahati (Assam).
The proper understanding about the microorganisms, their roles and uses
in industries, agriculture, health and environment management is crucial to our
future development. These microorganisms can be exploited to our benefit through
innovative application in the field of biotechnology, genetic engineering, genomics,
pharmaceuticals, agriculture and industries. Moreover, children will learn to
handle microorganisms without fear. The module comprises a small microscope, some
other tools and materials, a few posters and an audio visual CD along with the
Activity Manual. Open-ended Experiments on Life Science
using Vermi-composting Training workshops were organized to train resource
teachers so that they can pursue the activity with children as science and eco-club
activities. Training workshops were organized at Naogaon (Assam), Patnitop (Jammu),
Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya, Kisanganj (Delhi), and Kota (Rajasthan). Module
on Social Insects A module on Social Insects was developed for introducing
the spirit of scientific enquiry among children. Some highly evolved social insects
are taken in this module that would create an interest in children about architecture
and building of the habitat by these insects, communication among inmates, division
of labour, defence mechanism and reproduction, etc. Brainstorming
on Soil Management and Land Productivity Two days national brainstorming
workshop on soil management and land productivity was conducted in collaboration
with Karnataka Rajya Vijnan Parishat (KRVP), Bangalore during 11 – 12 August,
2007. 12. Training in S&T Communication Academic
Courses in Science Communication Long term academic courses/
programmes in S&T Communication/ Journalism at Devi Ahilya Vishwa Vidyalaya,
Indore; Lucknow University, Lucknow were continued. Over 50 students completed
the course this year. Lucknow University and Purvanchal University have recently
started research programme in this faculty leading to Ph.D. in science communication.
Anna University, Chennai has initiated a two years’ M.Sc. course in science
communication and a one year post graduate diploma in science journalism. The
Indian Science Communication Society (ISCOS), Lucknow continued one-year training
course in science journalism through distance education, which has been catalyzed
and supported by the Parishad. VBS Purvanchal University,
Jaunpur continued a special paper on science journalism as part of a postgraduate
course in mass communication. A Post Graduate Diploma Course in Science Journalism
was continued at Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication,
Bhopal. Special Papers on Science Communication/ Science
Journalism The Parishad has introduced special/ optional papers
in science communication/ science journalism as part of ongoing graduate/ postgraduate/
diploma courses of journalism, mass communication and media studies at various
universities/ institutions in order to develop trained manpower in the area of
science communication/ science journalism. Gandhi Gram Rural Institute (Deemed
University), Gandhi Gram (Tamil Nadu) and Hyderabad University (Andhra Pradesh)
have started semester on science communication as part of their mass communication
courses. Cotton College, Guwahati University, Guwahati (Assam) has started a special
paper on science communication. Orientation Course
on Media Practice & Science Communication Indian Science
News Association (ISNA), Kolkata organized a medium term orientation course during
August-September 2007. The objective of the programme was to provide training
and orientation to the teachers, students and media persons for developing media
worthy scripts and programmes for enhancing public awareness of science and technology.
The programme was organized under the Parishad’s scheme of medium term training
programmes in science communication. Training for Science
Journalists/ Scientists/ Writers/ Illustrators Training workshops
for science journalists/ scientists/ writers/ illustrators were organized in regional
languages in order to encourage science coverage in print and electronic media
in various parts of the country. Some 1000 science writers, journalists, scientists
and teachers were trained in 25 workshops. They learnt various techniques of presenting
scientific contents in simple and interesting manner to the masses using various
mass media and creative genres. The programme was also extended to difficult areas
of Jammu & Kashmir and North-Eastern states. Training
Workshop on S&T Communication through Puppetry Puppetry
is one of most ancient forms of entertainment in the world. Besides providing
entertainment, this visual art form is also used for conveying meaningful messages
to masses. Kainat Foundation, Kako (Bihar); SEARCH, Ghaziabad (U.P.); Students’
Welfare Society, Anantnag (J&K); Manthan Yuva Sangthan, Ranchi (Jharkhand)
organized a number of programmes on science communication through puppetry in
their respective states to spread scientific messages using puppets on topics
such as pollution, waste management, AIDS, environment conservation, eradication
of superstitions, water awareness, climate change and detection of food adulteration,
etc. Training Programmes on Disaster Preparedness The
Punjab State Council for S&T, Chandigarh under a project catalysed and supported
by RVPSP, DST, New Delhi organized many training programmes on Disaster Preparedness
which included sessions ranging from first aid, fire safety, flood and its prevention,
safety from riots, stampede, etc. The state level workshop in Chandigarh was followed
by five zonal workshops in various zones of Punjab such as Ludhiana, Patiala,
Bathinda, Amritsar and Hoshiarpur. Besides lectures, demonstrations on various
aspects of citizens’ safety and preparedness were organised at around 20
places in Punjab. Similar initiatives were also taken all
over Assam. The North-East Institute of Science & Technology (formerly Regional
Research Laboratory), Jorhat, organized a series of workshops, in three phases,
on Hazards-Minimizing Risk and Maximizing Awareness. 13.
Incentive Schemes National Awards for Science and Technology
Communication Science and technology communication is a specialized area
having individuals and institutions dedicated to the cause. Outstanding efforts
are recognized with national awards, annually. Shri Kapil Sibal, Hon’ble
Union Minister for S&T and Earth Sciences honoured the outstanding science
communicators on National Science Day in Delhi. Listed below are the winners in
various categories: 1. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science
& Technology Communication was presented to Dr. V.A. Elavalagan, Chennai and
Swadeshi Science Movement (SSM), Kochi. 2. National Award for Outstanding
Effort in Science & Technology Communication through Books and Magazines was
presented to Smt. Rekha Aggarwal, New Delhi. 3 National Award for Outstanding
Effort in Science & Technology Popularization among Children was presented
to Dr. Madhu Pant, New Delhi & Shri Kuldeep Sharma, New Delhi. 4 National
Award for Outstanding Effort in Science and Technology Communication in the Print
Media was presented to Shri S. Ananthanarayanan, Mumbai and Shri Dinesh C. Sharma,
New Delhi. 5 National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science and Technology
Communication in Electronic Media was presented to Shri Niret Alva, Gurgaon and
Shri H.B. Muralidhara & Seema Muralidhara, Mumbai. Each award consists
of cash, a memento and a citation.
Natural Resources Data Management System
(NRDMS) District Geo-spatial Data
Centers a. Tamil Nadu – Three District GIS Database Centers
i.e. Theni, Cudullore and Nagapattnam were developed. Resource profiles for these
districts were prepared on 1:50,000 scale and integrated database was also developed
to provide information requirement for various line departments at district level.
b. Andhra Pradesh - Two District GIS database Centers i.e. Kadapa
and Nellore were developed and resource profiles were prepared. In addition, efforts
have been made to develop village information system for 20 villages to showcase
the utility of Spatial Data on Natural Resources and other allied sectors in local
area development planning. c. Karnataka - All the districts of Karnataka
have been taken up to develop GIS resource profile and also to build up R&D
applications as per the need of the line departments at district level. For this
purpose, MOU has been signed between DST and Government of Karnataka to operationalise
this project in next few years. Also, State Geospatial Portal for data clearing
is being developed. d. Nagaland - Kohima district was established
during the year 2004 with the objective to build up technological capacity for
developmental planning processes at district level. In this regard, digital spatial
resource profiles have been generated at 1:50,000 scale and at village level for
89 villages at 1:10,000 scale through constraint stakeholders interaction (Figure
8.11). At district level, resource profile contains administrative boundary, road
network, settlement, contours, physiography, geology, land use/ land cover, slope,
aspect, relief and drainage layers. Detail mapping of Government recognized village
boundary was done by ground survey using total station, since no cadastral map
was available for the same. The attribute data collection human resources and
socio-economic status of the village, village resources, Village Development Board
grant, and other land resources besides other special features of the village.
Users’ required applications for Health, Water Facility and School have been
developed and demonstrated to the Village Councils, Village communities, District
Planning & Development Board and line Departments. 
Figure
8.11: Land use action plan map of Phenshonyo, Khenyo and Romesinyo villages e.
Assam - NRDMS database center has been established in Sonitpur district. Digital
resource profiles at District, Block and village level for the district based
on the need of the line departments. An integrated database has been developed
for the same. Utility of the database in planning has been demonstrated for the
Public Health Engineering Department of the district. Tsunami
Studies A detailed study was initiated after the great Tsunami in December
2004. Tsunami Atlas for Nagapattinam and Kanyakumari coasts have been prepared
and shared with the State Government to use as the S&T outputs in local area
development. The main objective of the study is to determine soil salinity and
land use/ land cover changes including coastal erosion and deposition alongwith
beach profiles for the tsunami affected areas. 3D GIS
Project Delhi Zone I In order to demonstrate usefulness of 3D GIS data
and modeling in real time applications, a pilot study was conducted at Chandni
Chowk, Delhi. It includes establishment of real time monitoring systems using
high resolution satellite imagery, vehicle borne and static laser systems. Some
of the applications of this project include: Data Visualisation and modelling;
Real time monitoring of change detection; Facilitate Land encroachments; Effective
Crowd management; Efficient Traffic management; efficiency in property Tax collection;
Urban planning; and Disaster Management. Landslide
Hazard Mitigation i) Ongoing R&D Projects:
- Detailed geological and geotechnical studies have been undertaken in 10 areas
for developing model for calculation of factor of safety and slope stability.
These models will help in designing accurate preventive measures.
- A
book on manual for field investigations for landslides has been brought out and
circulated among the concerned scientific groups.
- Ten R&D projects
were evolved and supported exclusively for North Eastern States to develop expertise
and capability of the Institutions located in this part of the country.
- In
collaboration with Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), a pilot project was undertaken
to demonstrate the designs of landslide control in two selected sides among the
ghat road. The important aspect of this study enabled joint effort to implement
the design on ground with the support of TTD.
ii)
Mission Project on “Landslide for Uttaranchal” The mission project
on Landslide for Uttaranchal has commenced. 8 sites have been selected (4 with
Border Roads Organization and 4 with PWD Uttaranchal). 6 R&D projects were
supported to various participating agencies, which will undertake detailed geological/
topographical mapping and geotechnical investigations to understand the mechanism
of slope failure. This will lead to monitoring of the slide zones for making the
path clear for designing the preventive measures. A close interaction with Border
Roads Organistion and PWD Uttaranchal and the State Government is being maintained
to ensure the implementation of the projects more scientifically and effectively.
Geospatial Databases and Interoperability a.
Conceptual Data Model for Topographic Data A preliminary version of standards-based
topographic data model has been developed for building interoperable topographic
databases. The intended purpose is to allow topographic information sharing between
various stakeholders. The model is built upon the topographic objects and relationships
related to information presented on a standard 1:50,000 scale topographic map.
The top-level topographic object classes like communication; hypsography; hydrography;
habitation (building); land cover; utilities; boundaries; and the map frame &
text have been used in building the model. Characteristics of a Digital Landscape
Model (DLM) have been kept in view in designing the model so that the data remains
separate from the presentation style like colours and symbols as available in
the Digital Cartographic Model (DCM) of standard Digital Vector Data (DVD). b.
Geo-web Service Prototype In order to improve accessibility of geo-spatial
data (‘feature data’) of survey agencies or information (‘processed
data’ or ‘map products’) on district databases of NRDMS Programme,
organisations are now capable of providing spatial data/ information to users
through Geo-web. Wide user accessibility to such services is dependent on adoption
of Geospatial Interoperability standards by the data/ information providing agencies.
A prototype based on Open Geospatial Consortium’s (OGC’s) Web Feature
Service (WFS) and Web has been developed. Web Map Service (WMS) Specifications
has been adopted to demonstrate the concept of standardsbased Geo-Web Services.
Capable of storing the data sets in a Relational Database, the prototype serves
the feature data on the web using Geography Mark-up Language (GML) format of OGC
and a map product in JPEG/ GIFF formats displayable in standard browsers (Figure
8.12). Efficiency in delivery of feature data or map products could be significantly
improved by providing web-based feature or map service. 
Figure
8.12: Mouza and road data layers of Kasipur and Chhatna blocks of the adjacent
Purulia and Bankura districts (West Bengal) provided through Web Map Service (WMS)
from the Enterprise GIS server over the web Geo-Spatial
Technologies: A Sub-Programme on “Hyper/ Multi Spectral Signature Management”
Spatial information on natural and man made features of the earth’s
surface and their condition and change over time is now recognized as critical
for sustainable use and to remain in technology driven competitive environment.
Images and associated information can be obtained from building and mine sites
to natural resources at national and global scales at time scales of hours and
days to years and decades. Under NRDMS, this programme is being evolved as new
initiative. Bio-Geo Database & Ecological Modeling
A sub-programme on “Bio-Geo Database & Ecological Modeling for
Himalayas” was developed. In order to study and suggest methodologies for
conservation of fragile Himalayan eco-system, multi-disciplinary R & D studies
have been carried out by identified research teams for the States of Himachal
Pradesh and Uttaranchal (Garhwal & Kumaon study transects) at the micro-watershed
level. Few of the salient outcomes are as follows: a.
Location Specific Management Plan with the aid of Large Scale Data An integrated
large scale spatial database has been designed to cater to the data collected
by different agencies on various aspects of biological and geophysical data viz.
current land use/land cover, surface water bodies, physiography, soil, geology
and geomorphology generated through interpretation of high resolution satellite
imagery (IKONOS) on 1: 4000 scale for getting details at micro level. Further,
attempts were made to identify the problem areas and to generate site specific
management plans, which indicate suggestive measures for optimal utilization of
present land and water resources for sustainable development (Figures 8.13 &
8.14). For this purpose, various thematic maps i.e. land use/land cover, soil,
hydrogeomorphology, slope, surface water bodies / drainage/watershed, transport
network and settlement locations have been integrated alongwith socio-economic
parameters, field information and collateral data. This integration is based on
an action plan decision rule or key which has been developed.
Figure
8.13: Land Resources Management Plan Map of Phakot Watershed, Tehri Garhwal |
Figure
8.14: Water Resources Management Plan of Phakot Watershed, Tehri Garhwal |
b. Geo-Spatial Technology for Faunal diversity Information
on the status and ecology of the animal communities is essential for sound conservation
planning. Though the Uttaranchal Himalayas are well documented with respect to
its flora, very few studies have dealt with the spatial representation of its
faunal (mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibian) component. With the aim to understand
spatio-temporal patterns of elements of biodiversity at micro scale and the relationship
between land use/land cover categories, intense sampling for habitat variables
and disturbance factors was carried out at the seasonal level for the watershed
areas. Distribution maps of key faunal elements for key mammalian species for
Pathri Rao Watershed area were generated. The conservation of mammals is an important
goal of wildlife management. Present study is an attempt to make use of geo-spatial
technology in wildlife to document the faunal diversity and the factors responsible
for it. User-Friendly Web Interface The
web interface was developed to evolve a system of information sharing, access
and use of the BioGeo data collected for different watersheds. GIS based query
system developed has the user defined query and custom report facilities. The
salient features of the web interface include links to general description, locations,
Biogeo data model, Downloads and access database. Care has been taken to make
it user friendly and at the same time serve the user community with functionalities
to retrieve the relevant information. A GIS based software,
RefPlan, has been developed for supporting the Referral System in Health Care
Delivery with special reference to arduous terrains for three blocks of Sundarban,
South 24 Praganas, West Bengal viz. Kakdwip, Namkhana and Pathar Pratima. A glimpse
of the software is presented in Figure 8.15. 
Figure
8.15: A GIS based software, RefPlan, developed for supporting Referral System
in Health Care Delivery with special reference to arduous terrains for three blocks
of Sundarban, South 24 Praganas, West Bengal Geo-visualization
A program on R&D in geo-visualization for better spatial
planning have been developed with a goal to improve spatial planning through developing
powerful human-centered methods and visual representational technologies that
make it possible for various users to solve developmental problems through computersupported,
visually-enabled analysis of the growing wealth of geospatial data. The five research
spearheads identified under the program are as follows: 
R&D
Applications In, the Bengal Delta Plain (BDP), large-scale
natural arsenic contaminated areas occur in pockets, interspersed with non-contaminated
areas. In order to delineate the spatial dimension and extent of Terminal Pleistocene-Holocene
sequence in BDP in the coastal districts of Nadia, West Bengal, a project was
supported to the School of Fundamental Research, Kolkata. The project has achieved
some vital breakthrough in respect of information on controlling factors that
account for sourcing and mobilisation of Arsenic in the BDP, particularly in respect
of Nadia district (Figure 8.16). Besides, it has been able to point out the possible
hot spot areas, both in horizontal and vertical extent of the aquifer. With detailed
maps at the mouza, block level and geodated data of the contamination zone, the
work accomplished is very unique in nature which needs broader dissemination to
the decision makers. State Science
And Technology Programme (SSTP) State
Science & Technology Programme (SSTP) is focused on the specific objective
of promotion of Science & Technology at State level. The support of the department
has played an important catalytic role to encourage and facilitate State Science
& Technology Councils to act as nodal organizations for planning, formulating,
evaluating and implementing science & technology activities at state level.
The most significant areas promoted by State S&T Councils
are Popularization of Science, S&T Entrepreneurship Development, S&T for
Weaker Sections and Women, Programmes for Young Scientists, Biotechnology Programmes,
Application of Remote Sensing Technology, Environment Programmes, Non- Conventional
Energy Programmes and sponsored location specific need based R&D Projects.
In order to catalyse programme-based cooperation, four meetings
of the Project Evaluation Group to consider new projects and review ongoing projects
and assess the results of completed projects were organized. Identification and
demonstration of S&T projects including field trials was promoted through
organizing two meetings of Core Group on technology demonstration. This group,
in its two meetings considered 22 new projects in diverse areas of socio-economic
importance and also monitored 19 ongoing projects. The Group recommended demonstration
of specific indigenous technologies in the fields of bio-fuels, hazardous waste
disposal and water purification at various locations. Some
of the important achievements during the year are enumerated below: 1.
Core Support to State S&T Councils The core support of the department
has enabled State S & T Councils to equip them with requisite S & T manpower
and office infrastructure which has enabled them to function effectively. This
support was continued to the State S&T Councils of 26 states. The support
was oriented to S&T manpower to strengthen S&T capabilities of the councils
to undertake programmes in newer and emerging areas. 2.
Joint Programmes The coordinated programme on identification of problems
requiring S&T intervention is expected to complete during the year. A number
of location specific problems have been identified which would enable state S&T
councils to formulate programmes that meet their socio-economic requirements.
3. Demonstration Projects including Replication
of Success Models One 100 litre/batch capacity
plant on production and utilization of bio-diesel from non edible oil seeds was
installed at University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES) campus in the
state of Uttarakhand (Figure 8.17 & 8.18). The plant is using Jatropha oil
as raw material with methanol and potassium hydroxide as catalyst and its performance,
operation and maintenance data is being scientifically collected.  | | Figure
8.17 Jatropha based Bio diesel plant at Uttarakhand | Fiogure
8.18: Jatropha Oil Expeller installed at UPES
Uttarakhand |
- The
biofuel plants developed at JSS Academy of Technical Education, Bangalore (Figure
8.19) were demonstrated at Chhatisgarh and Karnataka . Figure 8.19: Bio diesel
plant developed at JSS Academy of Technical Education, Bangalore
 |
- A
building incorporating solar passive housing techniques perfected by HP State
S&T council was demonstrated at Manipur to demonstrate energy efficiency of
constructions using these techniques.
- A sericulture demonstration plant
adopting better silk yielding technologies for improving sericulture in J&K
has been set up under guidance of scientists from IICT, Hyderabad.
- The
project on design and development of low cost technologies for the treatment of
domestic sewage in rural areas was completed. Under the project, four low cost
technologies viz (1) Karnal technology in Talwara township, Bhakra Beas Management
Board, Distt. Hoshiarpur; (2) Aerated Lagoon at village Ulana (Patiala); (3) Oxidation
Ditch at village Alisher (Sangrur); and (4) Stabilization Pond at village Madhopur
(Fatehgarh Sahib) have been demonstrated (Figure 8.20)
Figure
8.20: Demonstration of low cost techniques for treatment of domestic sewage
4.
S&T Studies and Surveys
Studies were initiated on improvement
of economic traits of native silkworm through fortification in Karnataka; technology
intervention for developing management system for fresh water pisciculture to
enhance local fish production in Arunchal Pradesh; Implementation oriented parcel-wise
database creation on S&T needs for development of fisheries and sericulture
sectors in Nadia and Murshidabad districts, West Bengal.
Studies
were completed on technology society interface in Andhra Pradesh; popularization
of orchid floriculture among rural masses by the adoption of mycorrhizal fungal
technology in Tamilnadu; community survey on substance related disorder (drug
abuse) in Kashmir valley and organic agriculture programme based on S&T inputs
in Sikkim. 5. Location Specific R&D and Technology
Development - New projects were initiated on exploration of knitted natural
fibre reinforced composites for low-end applications, technology development for
fortification of organic wastes for increasing efficiency of micronutrients for
sustainable crop production in degraded soils of coastal ecosystem and screening
of some selected medicinal plants for treating Rheumatoid Arthritis in Tamilnadu.
Projects were also initiated on community link up for natural dyeing with plants
found in Manipur.
- Project on antioxidants and free radical
scavenging effects in extracts of Zingiberaceae species exclusively found in Manipur
was completed.
6. Information Exchange Fourteenth
Regional meeting of State S&T Councils and Departments (Eastern Region) was
organized at Birla Institute of Technology (MESRA), Ranchi. The meeting was organized
to discuss the regional level status of the existing State level S&T structures;
recruitment/deployment of S&T Secretariat as well as identification of areas
of mutual cooperation between State S&T Councils and Departments in their
respective regions. 7. Documentation A
60 minute video film consisting of 24 success stories from different State Councils
depicting their achievements in the field of promotion of S&T in their respective
states has been prepared. |
Introduction
Introduction
