The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Durgapur hosted a commemorative event yesterday to celebrate the 2nd National Space Day. Themed “From Aryabhatta to Gaganyaan: Ancient Wisdom to Infinite Possibilities”, the event paid tribute to India’s landmark achievements in space exploration.
Chandrayaan-3, which made history with its soft landing on the lunar south pole on 23 August 2023, marked a monumental milestone not only for ISRO and the nation but also for the global space community. The mission positioned India as the first country to reach the lunar south pole, reinforcing its status among the world’s leading spacefaring nations.
The event was jointly organised by the Regional Remote Sensing Centre-East (RRSC-E), ISRO, Kolkata; the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), Meghalaya; the Department of Space; and NIT Durgapur. It brought together scientists, researchers, students, and dignitaries to relive the inspiring journey of India’s successful lunar mission.
In a spirited demonstration of community engagement and educational outreach, six local schools from Durgapur, West Bengal, participated in the celebration: Kendriya Vidyalaya CMERI, Kendriya Vidyalaya CRPF, Durgapur Public School, DAV Model School, RE Model School, and Guru Teg Bahadur Public School. Each school was represented by 50 students and two teachers, whose enthusiastic presence highlighted the country’s bright future in science and space.
Dr Prabir Kumar Das, Scientist-SF, RRSC-East, ISRO & Coordinator, NSpD, West Bengal, and Dr Shri Krishan Rai, Associate Professor, NIT Durgapur, served as coordinators of the event, ensuring its smooth planning and execution. Their efforts were strongly supported by Professor Kalyan Adhikari, Dean (Student Welfare), NIT Durgapur, who acted as the Chief Guest and guiding force throughout the programme.
The day’s agenda included special lectures by Dr Arindam Guha, Scientist-SG and Head, Applications, RRSC-East, Kolkata, and Avijit Mitra, Scientist-SF, UR Rao Satellite Centre, ISRO, alongside an engaging quiz competition, panel discussions, and multimedia exhibitions. The exhibits highlighted mission milestones, technical innovations, and the broader vision of India’s space programme. On display were various prototypes of rockets, cryo-engines, and satellites, offering participants a close-up view of the technologies driving India’s progress in space exploration.
As India looks ahead to future missions such as Gaganyaan, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, and beyond, the event served as a powerful reminder of the nation’s growing stature in the global space domain and the enduring spirit of scientific pursuit that inspires the next generation.
Professor Arvind Choubey, director of NIT Durgapur, expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants and extended a special note of appreciation to ISRO for selecting NIT Durgapur as the host institution for this prestigious programme.