A Science City figures in the list of the series of new facilities the Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu proposes to set up in Amaravati, the new capital of ‘Sunrise’ Andhra Pradesh.
Mr. Naidu is said to be keen on the new facility and to translate his wish into reality, he recently approached the Union Minister of Culture who asked him to submit a feasibility report and commitments as per norms.
As per stipulated norms, fund allocation is in 60:40 (60 per cent by Centre and 40 per cent by State) ratio for setting up of a Science City by a State.
“Thereafter, it is envisaged that the State government run it on its own. Local population of 50 lakh and guarantee of at least 10 lakh visitors annually are norms associated with Science Cities. But State capitals are exempted of these norms and Amaravati being the capital of Andhra Pradesh may benefit in this regard,” said G.S. Rautela, former Director General of the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), an autonomous organisation under the Union Ministry of Culture.
The NCSM is the largest chain of science centres or museums under a single administrative umbrella in the world. “We have a total of 48 science museums across the country,” he informed.
Mr. Rautela was in the city to participate in the World Museums Day celebrations in Amaravati.
“Culture should find a prominent place in the urban set-up. We have a rich heritage and many monuments. There has to be a digital recreation and it should be presented in an immersed environment. A panoramic presentation should make visitors feel part of the culture,” he said.
Referring to the Kalachakra Museum which has been renamed as the Amaravati Heritage Centre and Museum, he said it should be expanded, modernised and made visitor-friendly. “In the cultural and heritage arena, you need to have regular cultural activities — both tangible and intangible. People should be sensitised on the need to connect to their roots,” he said.
Mr. Rautela said he would extend all possible help to Andhra Pradesh in setting up the proposed Science City.
Sources said the Chief Minister had in mind a replica of the Science City in Kolkata, the largest Science Centre in India.
The Kolkata Science City is a wonderland of all things science presented in an educational yet splendidly fun manner, making the subject of science an excuse for a fun-filled family day out.
It includes among other features a dynamotion hall, illusions, a fresh water aquarium, a live butterfly enclave, an earth exploration hall, an evolution park, a space odyssey, a 3D vision theatre, mirror magic, time machine, a maritime centre and an unnamed quiz corner.
