Gujarat’s Science Revolution Reaches Millions as Regional Science Centres Become Hubs of Innovation

Gandhinagar | Gujarat — Gujarat’s push to cultivate scientific thinking and innovation is yielding remarkable results, with the State’s four Regional Science Centres collectively attracting more than 25.64 lakh visitors over the past few years. Established across North Gujarat, Saurashtra and Kutch, these centres have transformed into vibrant destinations where science is no longer confined to textbooks but brought alive through immersive experiences, cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning.

Developed by the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), the centres in Patan, Bhuj, Bhavnagar and Rajkot are playing a pivotal role in nurturing curiosity among students, researchers and citizens from both urban and rural communities. Their growing popularity reflects Gujarat’s commitment to building a scientifically aware society and fostering innovation-driven development.

The Patan Regional Science Centre has emerged as the flagship destination, drawing more than 14.86 lakh visitors since its inauguration in 2022. Through engagement with over 2,700 schools and outreach programmes such as Science Gram Sabhas, the centre has extended scientific learning to villages, women, farmers and Divyang communities. It has conducted more than 890 workshops, 579 lecture series and nearly 1,900 science shows.

“The Patan Regional Science Centre is providing science enthusiasts with an excellent experience through its remarkable and informative galleries,” said J.C. Pandya, former Mission Director of NHM Gandhinagar.

In Kutch, the Bhuj Regional Science Centre has become a landmark attraction, welcoming more than 2.57 lakh visitors, including international tourists. Equipped with six thematic galleries, marine simulators and a 3D theatre, the centre recently added India’s largest public space observatory featuring a state-of-the-art 24-inch telescope. More than 3,500 citizens have already explored the mysteries of the universe through the facility.

The Bhavnagar Regional Science Centre, spread across 20 acres, has established itself as a model of experiential learning and sustainability. Featuring galleries on marine science, automobiles, biology and Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, the centre combines education with innovation through attractions such as a 9D virtual reality simulator and interactive science zones. Its green initiatives, including a solar power plant and zero-water-waste practices, have earned it recognition as a model eco-friendly campus.

Meanwhile, the Rajkot Regional Science Centre is inspiring future innovators through advanced technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, holograms and simulation-based learning. Dedicated galleries on robotics, machine engineering and life sciences have helped attract more than 3.64 lakh visitors and engage over 1.67 lakh students.

Science and technology experts say these centres are helping bridge the gap between education and real-world innovation. By introducing students to emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, astronomy and drone technology, Gujarat is preparing a new generation of problem-solvers and innovators.