Govt to establish Astrophysics labs in 376 J&K schools

Srinagar, July 28  : The Union Ministry of Education (MoE)has approved establishment of Astrophysics (Aghaaz) laboratories in 376 government schools across Jammu and Kashmir.

According to details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that two schools in each zone have been selected for establishment of such labs during the current financial year.

As per the details Directorate of Samagra Shiksha J&K, has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Kanpur for establishment of these labs.

“The process for this has been already started and these innovative Astrophysics laboratories will be made functional by August 2023,” reads an official communication.

The CEOs have been asked to instruct the concerned head of the schools, selected for establishment of Astrophysics laboratory, to coordinate with IIT teams and facilitate them with all the requirements including one spacious room where such laboratory will be established.

“Two such model labs, one each in Srinagar and Jammu, have already been established and inaugurated by the Principal Secretary School Education Department,” it reads.

It added that these laboratories will increase interest in astronomy among students. “With the help of telescopes, students can admire the beauty of the moon, sky and other astronomical bodies.”

Meanwhile, an official said that these labs are equipped with smart TVs, telescopes and all other necessary equipment—(KNO)