CM Siddaramaiah launches 'Digital Mobile Planetarium' initiative for schools
Bengaluru (PTI): Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday launched the state’s 'Digital Mobile Planetarium' initiative at Vidhana Soudha, marking a renewed push to strengthen science learning in rural Karnataka.
The Planetarium brings an immersive astronomy experience directly to school campuses through custom-built vehicles equipped with a 5-metre dome, 360-degree fish-eye projection, air-conditioning, and advanced audio systems.
The initiative was conceived to bridge the rural–urban gap in access to planetarium learning, enabling students to explore the universe from their own school premises, a statement issued by the chief minister’s office said.
Speaking after inaugurating the programme, Siddaramaiah said the initiative had already reached over 17 lakh students, calling it "a significant achievement" in democratising access to astronomy.
"Our aim is to spark scientific curiosity in rural children and bring high-quality science education closer to them," he said.
State Minister for Science & Technology N S Boseraju said the programme has been infused with upgraded technology and an expanded delivery model.
He added that while the mobile planetarium currently operates in a limited number of districts, the government is preparing to scale the initiative across all districts in Karnataka in the coming months.
"We are committed to ensuring that every child, irrespective of geography, receives exposure to modern science," he said.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Former India hockey coach Michael Nobbs dies
Melbourne (PTI): Former Australian hockey player Michael Nobbs, who coached the Indian men's team at the 2012 London Olympics, has died after a prolonged illness.
He was 72 years old and is survived by his wife Lee Capes, a former Australian women's international and daughter Kaitlin, who is a current Hockeyroos star.
"Hockey Australia extends its deepest condolences to Michael’s family, friends, former teammates, players and all those whose lives and careers were shaped by his contribution to hockey. He will be remembered as a proud Kookaburra, a respected professional, and a servant of the sport," Hockey Australia said in a statement.
Nobbs represented Australia as a defender, playing across the half-back line and at fullback, and was renowned for his reliability, fitness and professionalism. He earned 76 international caps for Australia between 1979 and 1985, scoring one goal, and was a member of one of the strongest eras in Australian men’s hockey, said Hockey Australia on its website in its tribute.
Nobbs was an integral part of the Australian teams that competed at the 1981 Hockey World Cup in Bombay and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
While part of a generation widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest, he consistently held his place through hard work, discipline and trust earned from teammates and coaches, Hockey Australia wrote.
Nobbs took over the coaching of the Indian men's team in 2011 after it had failed to qualify for the Beijing Games in 2008. While India were brilliant in the qualifiers, the team finished last at the London extravaganza which also expedited the Australian coach's sacking.
Apart from India, Nobbs also coached Japan.
