Science and technology must act as catalyst for inclusive growth: Satish Sharma

Jammu, Apr 21: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, Tuesday released the Coffee Table Book on Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Activities and unveiled the annual IEC Calendar 2026 of the Department of Science & Technology, Jammu & Kashmir government, at a formal function held here.
The Coffee Table Book offers a comprehensive documentation of IEC initiatives undertaken across Jammu & Kashmir, showcasing the outreach, impact and diversity of science and technology interventions at the grassroots level. It reflects the department’s sustained efforts to promote scientific temper, strengthen innovation ecosystems and foster meaningful engagement between institutions and communities.
The annual IEC Calendar 2026 outlines a detailed, month-wise roadmap of awareness campaigns, outreach programmes and thematic activities aimed at ensuring continuous public engagement with science and technology. By integrating key observances, innovation-driven events and awareness drives, the calendar institutionalises a structured and sustained approach to science communication across the Union Territory.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister emphasized that science and technology must act as catalyst for inclusive growth and social transformation. He stated that the real measure of scientific progress lies in its ability to positively impact the lives of common citizens. He highlighted that IEC initiatives play a crucial role in bridging the gap between laboratories and society, ensuring that innovations are effectively communicated, understood and adopted at the grassroots level.
Satish Sharma observed that Jammu & Kashmir is steadily progressing towards becoming a knowledge-driven and innovation-oriented Union Territory, where scientific awareness and technological interventions are increasingly integrated into governance and development frameworks. He appreciated the department’s efforts in making science accessible, relevant and people-centric and stressed the need to further expand outreach in rural and remote areas, particularly among youth, students and marginalized communities.
Underscoring the importance of strategic communication, the Minister noted that the annual IEC Calendar would serve as an effective tool for planning, coordination and implementation of outreach initiatives. He expressed confidence that such structured efforts would contribute significantly towards fostering innovation, enhancing awareness of government programmes and promoting sustainable practices in areas such as renewable energy, digital technologies and scientific research.
Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner Secretary, Science & Technology, Babila Rakwal, stated that the Coffee Table Book reflects the Department’s evolving approach towards inclusive and impact-driven science communication. She highlighted that IEC activities have emerged as a core pillar of the Department’s mandate, enabling the translation of scientific knowledge into tangible societal benefits.
She further elaborated that through key institutions such as JKSTIC and JAKEDA, the Department has successfully implemented outreach programmes addressing real-world challenges while building awareness and capacity among citizens. She reiterated the department’s commitment to strengthening institutional linkages, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and aligning scientific advancements with developmental priorities.
The Commissioner Secretary added that the Annual IEC Calendar will enhance coordination among stakeholders and ensure a systematic and sustained outreach strategy. She emphasized that the department will continue to expand its programmes, particularly in underserved and remote areas, to ensure inclusive access to the benefits of science and technology.
Among others present on the occasion were Special Secretary Riyaz Ahmad Wani; Additional Secretaries Anshuman Singh and Neelam Khajuria; Deputy Secretary Dr. Abdul Khabir; Asif Amin; CEO, JAKEDA, Dr. P. K. Dhar; Additional Director, JKSTIC,. Mushtaq Ahmed; and other senior officers and officials of the Department.