Union Minister for Earth Sciences, Shri. Kiren Rijiju, paid a visit to the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) to acquaint himself with the institution’s important activities and initiatives. The visit consisted of a series of informative events aimed at showcasing the work carried out by NCPOR. One of the highlights was an interactive session with the team stationed at Bharati Station in Antarctica, conducted virtually.
During his address to NCPOR scientists and staff, Minister Kiren Rijiju praised their dedicated work and recognized the center’s potential and relevance. He emphasized India’s increasing global prominence and the aspirations of its people. The Minister commended the ongoing successful expedition in Antarctica and expressed his eagerness to interact with the team upon their return. He emphasized the need to expand research activities, particularly in the Himalayan region, which he believes holds great potential and should be further explored.
Minister Rijiju expressed his belief in the transformative power of science and stressed the importance of taking a rational approach to address challenges. He assured the scientific community of his commitment to providing necessary resources, policies, and support to help them achieve their objectives. The Minister also emphasized the significance of creating awareness and visibility for researchers’ work, encouraging increased public engagement and appreciation of scientific endeavors.
Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director of NCPOR, expressed gratitude for the visit and highlighted the complexity of conducting scientific research in polar regions, requiring exceptional skills in logistics and coordination among various institutions and agencies. He expressed confidence in NCPOR’s ability to make significant progress and enhance India’s reputation in polar and oceanic research under the leadership of Minister Rijiju.
During the visit, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju had the opportunity to experience a virtual reality show of the Antarctic region and visited the Ice Core Lab and the Sophisticated Instrumentation Facility. These visits showcased the advanced research infrastructure and techniques employed by NCPOR scientists.