Barama, Baksa, Assam – April 19, 2025
In a significant stride towards enhancing science education in Northeast India, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Pramod Boro, alongside Dr. Nilesh M. Desai, Director of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s Space Applications Centre (ISRO SAC), inaugurated the Dr. Nilesh M. Desai ICT STEM Space Laboratory at Barama Girls’ High School in Baksa district.
This facility marks the fourth space laboratory established in the BTR and holds the distinction of being the first-ever space lab in a girls’ high school within the region. The initiative aims to foster interest in space science among students, providing them with hands-on experience and exposure to advanced scientific concepts.
BTR Executive Member of Education, Wilson Hasda, was also present during the inauguration, highlighting the region’s commitment to empowering its youth through progressive educational initiatives.
The establishment of this lab is part of a broader initiative by the BTR government to set up ten space laboratories across the region. The first of these, the Chino Basumatary Memorial Space Laboratory, was inaugurated at Sidli-Kashikotra Higher Secondary School in Chirang district. The second and third space labs were subsequently launched at Debargaon HS School in Kokrajhar and Bijni Bandhab HS School in Chirang, respectively.
These labs are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including telescopes, ISRO satellite and rocket models, aircraft and drone prototypes, robotics kits, 3D printers, and other cutting-edgej technological tools. The project is being implemented under the ISRO Space Tutor Programme in collaboration with Vyomika Space Academy, a global learning platform dedicated to promoting space and tech education.
CEM Pramod Boro emphasized the importance of such initiatives in transforming education in the region. “BTR is reaching for the stars—not just in ambition, but in action. Our government remains committed to nurturing scientific curiosity among students and equipping them with tools to lead in innovation,” he stated.
Dr. Nilesh M. Desai lauded the initiative and expressed optimism about its impact on young minds. “These labs can play a key role in shaping future scientists and innovators. Early exposure to space science will expand students’ horizons and build self-confidence,” he remarked.
With each new lab, BTR continues to pave the way for inclusive and futuristic learning, making it a trailblazer in space education in Northeast India.