Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Calls for MoU Between AP and ISRO to Inspire Youth

Tirupati: Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has proposed that the Andhra Pradesh government sign a Memorandum of Understanding with ISRO to foster interest in Space research among the youth.

Speaking as the chief guest at the National Space Day celebrations held at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota on Tuesday, Pawan Kalyan emphasized the need to channel the curiosity of youth in a positive direction.

"There is boundless curiosity among the youth of AP, but they require proper guidance," Kalyan who handles the departments of science & technology said.

Such an MoU would aim to share scientific knowledge and provide valuable advice to young people interested in Space research. Discussions would be held with ISRO officials to seek their guidance to youth, helping them find career paths or research opportunities, he said.

The deputy CM expressed hope that this initiative would inspire more young people to pursue careers in science and technology.

Pawan Kalyan presented awards and certificates to students who excelled in various competitions held as part of the National Space Day celebrations. SDSC-SHAR director A Rajarajan and other officials were present.

The deputy CM praised ISRO's journey from humble beginnings in Kerala’s Thumba to becoming a world-class Space agency. He commended ISRO's ability to conduct Space missions at significantly lower costs. India's Mars mission cost less than the spend for a Hollywood movie, he noted.

PK noted that ISRO is now capturing nearly three per cent of the Space market and contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. He also noted that the annual budget allocation for ISRO has risen from Rs.5,615 crore in 2013-14 to Rs.13,700 crore in 2022-23.

The state government would provide full support to ISRO's upcoming Gaganyaan project. Immediate action had been taken to improve a 17-km road leading to SHAR, following a plea from ISRO, he said.