Assam Science City Inaugurated at Tepesia, Sonapur: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Highlights Need for Stronger Scientific Temper in Assam | Rs 300 Crore Mega Project
Assam Science City Inaugurated: A Landmark Step Towards Building Scientific Temper in the Northeast
Guwahati, March 10, 2026 – In a major boost to science education and innovation in Northeast India, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday inaugurated the much-awaited Assam Science City at Tepesia in Sonapur, near Guwahati. The state-of-the-art facility, developed as a joint initiative between the Government of Assam and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), stands as one of the most significant science infrastructure projects in eastern India.
Sprawled across approximately 82 acres (equivalent to about 250 bighas of land), the Assam Science City has been constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 300 crore. CM Sarma emphasized during the inauguration ceremony that this sprawling complex is larger than the renowned science museum in Kolkata, positioning it as a premier destination for immersive scientific learning in the region.
The inauguration marks a pivotal moment in Assam’s efforts to foster a robust scientific temper among its youth. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the persistently low number of students from Assam pursuing core science subjects. Despite the state’s remarkable expansion in scientific and technical infrastructure over the past decade—including premier institutions like IIT Guwahati—the interest in advanced scientific studies continues to lag.
“There is still a lack of scientific temper in our society. Despite having facilities and opportunities for science education, the number of students pursuing core science remains low,” Sarma stated. He highlighted that while Assam now boasts several prominent centres of learning and research—such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, National Forensic Sciences University, Institute for Plasma Research, Rain Forest Research Institute, Regional Science Centre, and even IIM Shillong—the state’s representation in national giants like ISRO and DRDO remains limited due to fewer students opting for specialized scientific careers.
The Chief Minister stressed the critical need for homegrown scientists to tackle region-specific challenges, particularly in climate, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. He cited a pressing example: “If weather conditions remain dry without rainfall until April, Assam’s tea production could drop by nearly 30%. American scientists will not solve this problem because it is a regional issue. We need scientists from our own land to address such challenges.”
Sarma further underscored that building strong scientific capability is indispensable for Assam’s long-term development and self-reliance. “If we wish to become a strong state, we must have control over our human resources,” he asserted, calling for greater emphasis on nurturing local talent in core sciences.
Features and Attractions at Assam Science City
The newly inaugurated Assam Science City offers visitors an engaging, hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity in science and technology. Currently, the facility houses two flagship galleries:
- Eureka Pavilion – Focused on interactive and fun explorations of scientific principles.
- Space Odyssey – Dedicated to astronomy, space exploration, and related wonders.
Additional highlights include immersive experiences powered by cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. Visitors can embark on virtual tours of the moon, witness recreations of iconic missions like Mangalyaan (Mission Mangal), explore the vast gallery of astronomy, and even experience a digital journey through Kaziranga National Park via AR/VR.
One of the most unique attractions is a scientific recreation of the historic Battle of Saraighat, blending history with technological storytelling to educate and entertain.
The complex also plans future expansions, including a Science Discovery Centre and a Science Park, which will further enhance its appeal as a family-friendly educational hub.
CM Sarma noted that the Assam Science City will require ongoing maintenance and upgrades to stay relevant in a fast-evolving scientific landscape. “Science never stops. Just like the museum in Kolkata updates its exhibits regularly, we will also need to update the exhibits here from time to time,” he said. To ensure this, he proposed forming an advisory committee comprising leading scientists to recommend periodic enhancements and keep the facility at the forefront of innovation.
Boost to District-Level Science Education
On the same occasion, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated five District Science Centres located in Amingaon, Majuli, Silchar, Kaliabor, and Bongaigaon. Each of these centres is equipped with modern science galleries, digital planetariums, and auditoriums, extending the reach of quality science education beyond Guwahati to remote and rural areas of Assam.
This decentralized approach aligns with the government’s vision of making science accessible to all, particularly in underserved districts, and encouraging more students to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Why Assam Science City Matters for the Future
The establishment of Assam Science City comes at a time when the state is aggressively pursuing development in education, technology, and innovation. With premier institutions already in place and now this world-class facility, Assam is positioning itself as a hub for scientific advancement in the Northeast.
The project not only addresses the gap in scientific interest among students but also aims to inspire the next generation of researchers, engineers, and innovators who can contribute to national institutions and solve local problems. By integrating AR/VR technologies and interactive exhibits, the Science City makes complex concepts fun and approachable, potentially reversing the trend of low enrollment in core sciences.
Experts believe that initiatives like this, combined with policy focus on STEM education, could significantly increase Assam’s contributions to national scientific endeavors in the coming years.
As Assam embarks on this new chapter of scientific empowerment, the Assam Science City at Tepesia stands as a symbol of the state’s commitment to building a knowledge-driven future. Visitors, students, families, and educators are encouraged to explore this landmark facility and experience the wonders of science firsthand.
For more updates on Assam’s education and infrastructure developments, stay tuned to our website. The Assam Science City is open for exploration—plan your visit today and be part of fostering a stronger scientific temper in the region!
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