By Firstdespatch Desk Aug 18, 2026
Agartala, Aug 18 (FD) National Space Day 2026 was celebrated at Pragna Bhawan’s Auditorium No. 1 in Agartala with a focus on encouraging students to understand the importance of space science, technology and innovation. The programme was jointly organised by the Tripura Space Applications Centre (TSAC) and the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC).
The event was formally inaugurated by Animesh Debbarma, Minister of Science, Technology and Environment, who urged the younger generation to develop scientific thinking and contribute new ideas towards building a developed India by 2047.
Addressing students, Debbarma recalled India’s historic achievement on August 23, 2023, when the Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully landed on the Moon. The successful landing of the Vikram lander marked a significant milestone in India’s space research journey and led to the observance of August 23 as National Space Day.
The Minister emphasised that curiosity, imagination and new ideas are essential for progress in science and technology. He encouraged students to develop a scientific temperament and explore new possibilities instead of limiting themselves to conventional approaches.
Debbarma also highlighted the contribution of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to India’s space research history. He underlined the growing importance of satellites in the development of states, particularly in areas such as weather forecasting, agriculture and disaster management. Referring to India’s continuing achievements in space technology, he said ISRO launched 135 satellites in 2026 and stressed the growing role of collaboration between humans and machines.
“Although the state may be small, its dreams must be big,” Debbarma said, calling upon the new generation to come forward with innovative thinking to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Dr. Shyam S. Kundu, Head of SASD, NESAC, spoke about opportunities available to students across Tripura and the wider Northeast. He encouraged young people to consider entrepreneurship and startups in science and technology. He also highlighted the NE-SPARKS initiative, through which students were introduced to scientific opportunities and institutions.
Kundu said 800 students from the Northeast, including 100 from Tripura, had visited an ISRO centre in Bengaluru under a special initiative associated with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He also discussed ISRO’s Young Scientist Programme, which provides school students with exposure to different areas of science and technology.
The NESAC official further explained how technological applications can strengthen disaster management and help authorities prepare effective measures to tackle natural disasters.
Chaitanya Murthy, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, said the primary objective of National Space Day was to familiarise students with India’s progress in space science and technology. He paid tribute to Indian scientists, recalled the significance of Chandrayaan-3 and encouraged students to pursue science education and build successful careers.
Mahendra Singh, Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, delivered the welcome address.
During the programme, Debbarma unveiled a publication titled “Geo Spectrum.” Around 15 schools from the city participated with students and teachers, while students from 13 schools took part in a quiz competition.
Ramakrishna Mission School secured first place, followed by Umakanta Academy English Medium School in second place and PM Shri Sekerkote Higher Secondary School in third place. The prizes were presented by Debbarma.
The Minister also presented awards and cash prizes to the top 10 winners of the Junior Mathematics Olympiad Award 2025, further encouraging students to pursue excellence in science, mathematics and innovation. FD SB