News 2012- Nagpur, a destination for pure sciences

From mining to environment, archaeology to agriculture technologies, there is a whole array of institutions in the city engaged in research based on pure sciences. However, not many from the city know of these institutions and the work they are engaged in.

The scientists from city believe that Nagpur can very well be called a 'destination city' for pure sciences. However, the institutes engaged in research have so far been downplaying themselves."With institutes like National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (Neeri), Geological Survey of India, Indian Bureau of Mines, Central Mining Research Institute, Central Institute of Cotton Research and National Research Centre for Citrus among other, the city sure offers some good opportunities to students of geology," said Arindam Chatterjee, director of GSI and founder member Gondwana Geological Society.

Deputy regional director of Atomic Minerals Directorate (that is also housed in the city) Amit Majumdar believed that the education system does not lure students into taking up a career in sciences. "Unfortunately our universities are not wooing the right kind of students. We need to showcase our work to students so that they know of the careers available with subjects like physics, chemistry, geology," he said.

Work has already begun to change this scenario believed NEERI scientist Pawan Labhasetwar. His institution organizes an open day every year wherein common people can come and get a glimpse of the work done in the institution. He also interacted with students at a recent expo held at Raman Science Centre to introduce career option as a scientist to students.

"Right after their post graduation, students seem to be wishing to get well paying jobs. They do not have proper guidance or the opportunities coming their way, too," reasoned Jyotsna Meshram chemistry teacher at the RTM Nagpur University.

Her views were echoed by Vilas Deshpande, professor of applied physics at VNIT. "Despite their low scores students are opting for a degree in sciences. Besides, the parents wish children to be doctors and engineers rather than a scientist," he rued.