From Stargazing to Lavender Fields: Himachal Seeks Scientific Boost for Tribal Regions
In a bid to bring science, innovation and new livelihood opportunities to Himachal Pradesh’s remote areas, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in New Delhi and discussed several proposals aimed at strengthening science-based development across the state.
One of the key proposals centred on establishing an astronomy and astrophysics research centre in the high-altitude tribal regions of Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi. Drawing inspiration from the globally recognised astronomical facilities at Hanle in Ladakh, the Chief Minister said the region’s clear skies and favourable conditions make it ideal for scientific observations and research.
According to Sukhu, such a centre would not only promote cutting-edge scientific research but also inspire local students and youth to explore careers in science. He added that the project could open up new avenues for sustainable tourism, attracting astronomy enthusiasts and researchers to the tribal belt.
The Chief Minister also pushed for the expansion of lavender cultivation in Himachal Pradesh, highlighting its potential to become a profitable alternative crop for farmers. He sought support from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to establish more demonstration sites across the state, where farmers can learn modern cultivation techniques and better understand the crop’s commercial potential.
Recognising the need to nurture scientific temper among young minds, Sukhu requested assistance for setting up science museums in schools located in the state’s aspirational blocks. He said such facilities would help students learn through hands-on experiences, spark curiosity and encourage greater interest in science, technology and innovation.
Another major issue discussed during the meeting was strengthening Himachal’s weather monitoring system. The Chief Minister urged the Centre to expedite the installation of automatic rain gauges in every gram panchayat and automatic weather stations at the block level.
He said access to real-time, location-specific weather data would help farmers make informed decisions, improve crop planning and strengthen disaster preparedness in a state that is often vulnerable to changing weather conditions.
The discussions also focused on ensuring that the benefits of scientific research and modern technology reach remote and tribal communities, helping bridge development gaps and create new opportunities in underserved regions.
Responding positively to the proposals, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh assured the Chief Minister that the demands would be considered sympathetically and promised all possible support from the Ministry.
Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant, Principal Advisor Ram Subhag Singh, Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar and Principal Resident Commissioner Ajay Kumar, were also present during the meeting.
