From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Jan 4: Karnataka’s Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote astronomy through the State’s rural libraries, ‘Arivu Kendras, to bring the wonders of astronomy closer to children and communities in rural Karnataka.

Through this collaboration, IIA will help train Karnataka’s Library Supervisors, develop astronomy resources in Kannada and organise engaging activities around celestial events, explained Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge.

He said communities will have access to information about astronomical phenomena visible to the naked eye and everyday concepts in astronomy. Supervisors will be equipped to conduct hands-on activities, especially for children, using affordable and accessible methods.

Online interactions through the Arivu Kendras’ Computer Labs, such as talks, contests and digital tools, will further enrich this initiative.

Training on using small telescopes will add a practical element, allowing people to directly experience the beauty of the cosmos, Kharge said.

This partnership will definitely go a long way in promoting scientific temperament among the youngsters in the rural areas, he added.