CM Mohan Majhi Felicitates Young Astronomer Talents at YATS 2024
Over 71,000 Students Participate in 18th Edition Organized by Tata Steel and Pathani Samanta Planetarium
By Rekha Jain
Bhubaneswar, Dec. 15: Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, felicitated 30 winners of the 18th Young Astronomer Talent Search (YATS) 2024 at the Pathani Samanta Planetarium. Organized by Tata Steel and the Planetarium, this year’s event saw participation from over 71,000 students across 30 districts of Odisha.
Paying homage to legendary astronomer Pathani Samant, CM Majhi lauded his contributions, including his 1835 calculations of solar and lunar eclipses using bamboo pipes. He also celebrated other Indian pioneers of astronomy like Aryabhatta and Bhaskara, highlighting India’s rich heritage in space science.
Majhi acknowledged India’s global achievements in space exploration, including the Chandrayaan-3 mission, landing on the Moon’s south pole, and plans for a national space station by 2035. He urged students to pursue careers in science and contribute to India’s ambitious space missions.
Minister of Science and Technology Shri Krushna Chandra Patra emphasized the progress India has made in science, crediting initiatives like Chandrayaan-3 as milestones. He announced plans for a planetarium and astrophysics institute in Khandapada, honoring Pathani Samant’s legacy.
Tata Steel’s Vice President, Rajiv Kumar, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity. “For nearly two decades, YATS has inspired students to explore astronomy and pursue careers in science,” he stated. This year’s winners will visit an ISRO facility to interact with top scientists.
With the theme *“Will Space Be Your Next Travel Destination?”*, YATS 2024 celebrated ISRO’s achievements and inspired future innovators. Dignitaries including Development Commissioner Smt. Anu Garg and former ISRO Program Director Dr. Geetha Varadan also attended the event.
Since its inception, YATS has engaged over 400,000 young science enthusiasts, with 200 students visiting ISRO facilities, cementing its role in nurturing Odisha’s scientific talent.
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