Raipur, Feb 3: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday inaugurated the state’s first space centre under the Antariksh Sangwari programme at Rakhi in Nava Raipur. Addressing the gathering alongside astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the CM stated that the facility would serve as a laboratory for fulfilling the dreams of the youth and strengthening the scientific future of Chhattisgarh.
The Chief Minister announced the expansion of the Antariksh Sangwari initiative to all districts in the state. He emphasised that the centre is not merely a building but a platform where children can understand science through research and practical learning beyond textbooks.
Sai noted that the success of students from Jashpur district in building a rocket proves there is no shortage of talent in the state. He added that space science has become a vital field for career growth, providing hands-on exposure to satellite manufacturing, tracking, weather forecasting, and cloud mapping.
The CM highlighted that space-based technologies will assist farmers with crop-related information and boost technology-based employment. He stated that these opportunities would help reduce the migration of youth to metropolitan cities and underscored the role of satellite technology in national security.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shared his spaceflight experiences, noting that rockets reach speeds of nearly 30,000 kilometres per hour. Describing Chhattisgarh as an energetic state, he lauded the establishment of the space centre as a visionary step for connecting children with space science.
Shukla recalled an interaction with local students on 5 September 2025, praising their sharp intelligence. He described the intensity of a rocket launch, comparing the focus required to the calm needed before an examination. He noted that his 20-day mission involved orbiting Earth 320 times and covering nearly 1.4 crore kilometres.
Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb said the presence of Group Captain Shukla is an inspiration for the nation’s youth. Forest and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kedar Kashyap added that the initiative reflects the government’s vision to inspire scientific thinking and innovation.
The programme was attended by MLAs Motilal Sahu, Anuj Sharma, and Indra Kumar Sahu, along with Collector Gaurav Singh and Municipal Commissioner Vishwadeep. Students from DPS and Sainik School Rajnandgaon presented a portrait to Group Captain Shukla during the event.