Vigyan Manthan Yatra Will Prove Beneficial for Students: CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav flagged off the 17th Vigyan Manthan Yatra, organised by the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (MAPCOST), from his residence on Monday evening. Extending his best wishes to the selected students, he interacted with them, played the role of a teacher, and even conducted a brief Q&A session with them on scientific topics.

As part of the event, Dr. Yadav joined students in observing various celestial bodies through a telescope and engaged them in detailed discussions on space science. “Today, I am not here as a Chief Minister or a teacher, but as your friend,” he told the students. “This journey will be a valuable experience for your life. Textbooks are important, but nothing can replace the experience of witnessing the work culture and environment of leading scientific institutions.”

He stressed that a true understanding of science also involves comprehending the harmony between the human body and nature. He elaborated on the five types of prana (life forces) that govern vital systems like respiration, speech, circulation, digestion, and reproduction. He praised MAPCOST for playing a key role in providing both theoretical and practical knowledge to students.

A Glimpse of the Chief Minister’s Interaction

Dr. Yadav asked students questions such as Who revolves around whom—Earth or Moon, What is the difference between a planet and a satellite, What is gravitational force, and How is the distance between planets calculated?

He was impressed with the students’ insightful answers and praised their knowledge and curiosity. The Vigyan Manthan Yatra will take place from April 21 to April 27, 2025.

A total of 375 meritorious students from Classes 10 to 12 (science stream) have been selected from across Madhya Pradesh. Students will travel to New Delhi and Chandigarh aboard the Vande Bharat Express.

In New Delhi, students will visit, National Science Centre, the National Institute of Plant Genomic Research, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan. In Chandigarh, they will explore the Central Scientific Instruments Organisation, the Indian Institute of Science, the Education and Research (IISER), and Punjab State Council for Science and Technology , National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, and Government Museum and Art Gallery.

Upon arrival in Delhi, the students will be welcomed by Vijnana Bharati.

Selected students will also get an opportunity to appear for a scholarship examination conducted by the Council. Top 20 students from each class who clear the exam will receive an annual scholarship of Rs. 12,000 for five years.

The Mission Excellence program, which has been running for 16 years, aims to identify future scientists and instil a lasting interest in science among school students.

Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Science and Technology) Shri Sanjay Dubey, MAPCOST Director General Dr. Anil Kothari, and Madhya Pradesh Hindi Granth Academy Director Shri Ashok Kadel, along with vice-chancellors, academicians, and teachers, were present on the occasion.