DIMAPUR: District administration Peren, in collaboration with the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), ISRO and Nagaland GIS & Remote Sensing Centre (NGISRSC), Planning & Transformation Department, Government of Nagaland, organized the pre-celebration of the 3rd National Space Day at the DC’s Conference Hall, Peren on August 12.
According to a DIPR report, the programme began with a welcome address by senior project director NGISRSC, Er. Mhatung Kithan, followed by Dr. Victor Saikhom, Scientist/Engineer-SF, NESAC, who outlined the objectives and significance of the celebration. Scientist/Engineer-SG, SCG, URSC, ISRO, Bengaluru, Rajeswari, delivered a presentation on India’s space programme and its applications.
DC Peren, Hiazu Meru, in his address, highlighted the importance of National Space Day, observed annually on August 23 to commemorate Chandrayaan-3’s successful landing near the lunar South Pole in 2023. He said the occasion celebrates India’s achievements in space science, honours ISRO scientists and inspires students to pursue STEM education. Meru urged students to cultivate critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning and a scientific outlook, stressing their role in national progress and integrity.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he emphasised inclusive and equitable education, while identifying education, health and economy as priority areas for Peren district. He underlined the district’s agricultural potential, advocating value addition, market linkages and entrepreneurship. Initiatives such as adoption of educational institutions and strengthening of health facilities were also highlighted. On economic development, he encouraged promotion of the “Green Peren” brand, off-season crops and entrepreneurship among youth. He further called for responsible environmental management and urged students to make responsible choices, avoiding harmful influences.
The first session concluded with a vote of thanks by deputy project director NGISRSC, Merenwapang. The second session featured a quiz competition on space science and India’s missions, while the third session included a drone demonstration and exhibition by NGISRSC, followed by technical presentations on geospatial technology’s role in transforming Nagaland.
The programme concluded with a valedictory session, where awards and certificates were presented to quiz winners and participants. The event was chaired by Imtilemla, NGISRSC, and attended by officials from district administration, NGISRSC, ISRO, NESAC, government departments, students, teachers and stakeholders.