NASA Trip for Maharashtra Students Likely to Get Cabinet Nod Soon: MoS Pankaj Bhoyar

Nagpur: A fully state-funded educational visit to a NASA centre in the United States for meritorious students from Maharashtra is likely to receive approval in the upcoming state cabinet meeting, minister of state Pankaj Bhoyar announced on Sunday. The initiative, aimed at promoting scientific temper and innovation among students, is expected to mark a significant milestone in the state's Science Tech Engg & Maths (STEM) education ecosystem.Addressing the prize distribution ceremony of the state-level finals of the National Young Scientists Competition at Shivaji Science College, Bhoyar said that the proposal has already been presented to CM Devendra Fadnavis, who has responded positively. "The CM has appreciated the concept, and the proposal will be taken up as a priority agenda item in the next cabinet meeting," Bhoyar said.Under the proposed plan, 21 innovative science models from every taluka will be showcased at science centres across the state to encourage grassroots-level scientific engagement. Additionally, 51 top-performing students will be selected for an educational visit to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Bengaluru, while the top 51 meritorious students from Maharashtra will be taken on an international exposure trip to a NASA centre in the United States. The selection will be based on innovation, scientific application, and problem-solving potential demonstrated through their models.Highlighting the broader national vision, Bhoyar said the initiative aligns with building a "Viksit Bharat" by strengthening STEM education. He welcomed the Union Budget provisions announced earlier in the day. During his interaction with students, Bhoyar lauded the quality of projects on display, noting a strong focus on environmental challenges. "One model on green waste management for urban cities was particularly impressive. Futuristic problems must be addressed today, and it is encouraging to see young minds already working on solutions," he said, describing the participants as "future problem solvers of the nation."The minister also expressed displeasure over delays in disbursing prize money to winners of last year's competition. "The prize amount was earlier just Rs 5,000, which I felt was inadequate. I pushed for ₹1 lakh, but bureaucratic hurdles slowed the process. Even the revised amounts of Rs 21,000 and later Rs 51,000 have not yet been sanctioned. This is unacceptable, and I will personally ensure that the promised prize money is paid," Bhoyar asserted.