Shimla: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today met Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh and discussed a range of proposals aimed at strengthening science and technology-based initiatives in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the state’s remote and tribal areas.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister apprised the Union Minister of the state government’s proposal to establish a centre for astronomy and astrophysics in the high-altitude tribal regions of Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi, on the lines of the successful astronomical initiatives at Hanle in Ladakh.

Seeking greater exposure to science and technology among students, the Chief Minister requested assistance for establishing science museums in schools located in the aspirational blocks of Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening the local weather monitoring network and urged the Union Government to expedite the initiative for installation of automatic rain gauges in every gram panchayat and automatic weather stations at the block level.

Union Minister Dr. Jitender Singh responded positively to the issues and proposals raised by the Chief Minister and assured that all the demands would be considered sympathetically. He also assured to extend all possible support and cooperation to Himachal from the Ministry.