Science is not merely a discipline. It is a way of thinking, questioning, and understanding the world. The presence of scientific inquiry and temperament in a society contributes directly to its socio-economic development and overall progress. From improving healthcare systems and education to driving innovation and economic growth, science shapes the future of communities. Yet, in places like Mokokchung, this vital pillar of development remains sadly under-supported.
There is currently no structured framework or infrastructure in Mokokchung to promote scientific learning, curiosity, and innovation outside the school curriculum. This is unfortunate, given that nurturing a culture of science should be a cornerstone of any developmental policy. While we celebrate academic toppers and achievers, we must ask whether we are equipping our youth with the tools and spaces to explore, question, and create.
The Government of India’s Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS), implemented by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), offers a valuable opportunity to bridge this gap. It may seem far-fetched, but there is no harm in setting bold aspirations. SPoCS has already facilitated the creation of 27 science centres across the country, many of them in underserved regions. The scheme focuses on establishing Science Centres, Innovation Hubs, Digital Planetariums, and Science Cities, featuring interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops that make science both exciting and accessible.
Importantly, towns with a population under five lakh, like Mokokchung, are given priority, with up to 90 percent of the project cost funded by the Ministry of Culture. The emphasis on outreach, inclusivity, and informal learning aligns perfectly with the needs of a district like Mokokchung, where access to science beyond textbooks remains limited.
If Mokokchung were to take advantage of SPoCS, it could transform the local education landscape. Imagine a Science Centre in Mokokchung, a space where schoolchildren conduct experiments, explore astronomy through digital planetariums, participate in innovation challenges, and develop critical thinking. Such a centre would not only inspire future scientists and thinkers but also serve as a community hub that promotes public engagement with science.
Science culture is the foundation of modern, self-reliant societies. Without it, communities risk falling behind in a world driven by knowledge and technology. Mokokchung must not be left out of this trajectory. Local authorities, educational institutions, and civil society must come together to advocate for and initiate such projects under national schemes like SPoCS.
The seeds of progress are planted in curious minds. It is time Mokokchung builds a garden where those minds can grow.
