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Odisha Seeks Federal Aid for Delayed Science City

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 22:50 GMT by The New Indian Express
      Locales: Odisha, INDIA

Bhubaneswar, Odisha - February 12th, 2026 - Odisha's ambitious Science City project in Bhubaneswar is undergoing a renewed push for completion, with the state government formally requesting significant financial assistance from the central government. Originally conceived in 2014, the project has encountered delays and escalating costs, necessitating a revised strategy and a fresh appeal for federal support.

The Science City, envisioned as a leading science communication and outreach center for all of eastern India, aims to transcend the typical museum model. It's designed to be a dynamic, interactive learning environment attracting not only students and educators but also tourists and the general public. The initial concept, while strong, has needed recalibration to meet the evolving demands of modern science education and the growing expectations for immersive experiences.

Addressing the Delays and Cost Overruns

The delays, according to sources within the Odisha government, stem from a combination of factors, including land acquisition challenges, logistical hurdles in sourcing specialized equipment, and, crucially, the rapid advancement of technology during the project's lifespan. What was considered 'state-of-the-art' in 2014 now appears comparatively dated. This has led to a necessary, and costly, upgrade of planned exhibits and infrastructure.

"We're not simply building a collection of static displays," explained Dr. Anjali Sharma, Director of Science & Technology for the Odisha government. "We're creating an ecosystem of learning, exploration, and innovation. That requires continually integrating the latest breakthroughs in areas like augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence. The original budget simply couldn't account for the pace of technological change."

A Futuristic Vision: Beyond Traditional Science Centers The revised plan for the Science City focuses on several key areas. The centerpiece will remain the state-of-the-art planetarium, now planned to feature 8K projection capabilities and immersive, full-dome experiences exploring not only astronomy but also climate science and space exploration. A proposed expansion includes a dedicated "Ocean Discovery" exhibit, leveraging Odisha's extensive coastline and marine biodiversity. This exhibit will incorporate advanced simulations of marine ecosystems and the impacts of climate change on ocean health.

The 3D theater, initially planned as a passive viewing experience, is being reimagined as an interactive simulation center. Visitors will be able to participate in virtual field trips to remote locations, explore the human body at a microscopic level, and even design and test their own engineering solutions. The expansive convention centers are also being repositioned to host international science conferences and workshops, solidifying Bhubaneswar's position as a hub for scientific discourse in the region.

Furthermore, the Science City will prioritize accessibility. Universal design principles are being implemented throughout the complex to ensure that exhibits are engaging and informative for visitors of all ages and abilities. This includes tactile displays for visually impaired visitors, audio descriptions, and multilingual support.

Economic Impact and Tourism Potential

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has consistently championed the Science City as a catalyst for economic growth and tourism. Projections indicate that the completed facility could attract over 2 million visitors annually, generating significant revenue for local businesses and creating hundreds of jobs. The surrounding area is already experiencing a surge in hotel and restaurant development, anticipating the influx of tourists.

"This isn't just about science education; it's about creating a vibrant, knowledge-based economy," stated Mr. Rajeev Kumar, Odisha's Tourism Secretary. "The Science City will complement Bhubaneswar's existing cultural attractions and establish the city as a must-visit destination for families and students."

The central government's response to Odisha's funding request is eagerly anticipated. Several parliamentarians from neighboring states have voiced their support for the project, recognizing its potential to benefit the entire eastern region. A decision is expected within the next quarter, which will determine the timeline for the final phase of construction and the realization of Odisha's vision for a world-class Science City.