The District Administration, Peren, in collaboration with the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), ISRO and Nagaland GIS & Remote Sensing Centre (NGISRSC), Planning & Transformation Department, Govt. of Nagaland, organized a pre-celebration programme of the 3rd National Space Day at the DC’s Conference Hall, Peren, on 12th August 2026.
The first session commenced with a welcome address by Er. Mhatung Kithan, Senior Project Director, NGISRSC, Planning & Transformation Department, Govt. of Nagaland. Dr. Victor Saikhom, Scientist/Engineer-SF, NESAC, Department of Space, Umiam, Meghalaya, gave an overview of the programme and highlighted the objectives and significance of the National Space Day pre-celebration. While Rajeswari, Scientist/Engineer-SG, SCG, URSC, ISRO, Bengaluru, delivered a presentation on India’s space programme and its applications.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner, Peren, Hiazu Meru, highlighted the significance of National Space Day, observed on August 23 to commemorate the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 near the lunar south pole in 2023. He stated that the occasion celebrates India’s achievements in space science, honours the contribution of ISRO scientists, engineers and workers, and inspires young students to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
The Deputy Commissioner encouraged students to develop a scientific bent of mind based on critical thinking, objective observation and evidence-based reasoning, which he said are essential for progress, prosperity, unity and national integrity.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he emphasised the importance of inclusive and equitable education and called upon all stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring opportunities for every citizen to learn, grow and contribute to the nation.
Highlighting the development priorities of Peren district, Meru identified education, health and the economy as key areas requiring focused attention. He noted the district’s potential in agriculture and stressed the importance of value addition, better market linkages and entrepreneurship to strengthen the local economy.
He also highlighted initiatives in the education and health sectors, including the adoption of Peren Government College and government schools, as well as health institutions such as District Hospital, Peren, CHC, PHC and HWC by the District Planning & Development Board, Peren.
On economic development, he stressed the need to promote the “Green Peren” brand, value-added products and the “Green Peren” outlet, besides encouraging and undertaking Off Season Crops on a pilot project basis and promoting entrepreneurship, hard work and dignity of labour among the youth.
Emphasising the need for responsible environmental management, he called for a scientific and rational approach towards issues such as waste and water pollution, logging and riverbed mining.
Meru further encouraged students to develop a clear sense of purpose and contribute to the all-round development of the district. He stressed the importance of human resource development, infrastructure, skill development and welfare measures, including the well-being and safety of women and children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
He advised students to give priority to their studies, make responsible choices and stay away from harmful influences, including substance abuse.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Merenwapang, Deputy Project Director, NGISRSC.
The second session featured a quiz competition aimed at enhancing students’ knowledge and interest in space science, India’s space missions and related developments.
The third session included a drone demonstration and exhibition by NGISRSC, providing participants with practical exposure to geospatial technology and remote sensing applications for developmental purposes. This was followed by technical presentations by Abu Sahin, NESAC, Department of Space, Umiam, Meghalaya, and Chubawati, Senior Analyst, NGISRSC, Planning & Transformation Department, on "From Space to Society: How Geospatial Technology is Transforming Nagaland".
The programme concluded with a valedictory session, where awards and certificates were presented to the quiz winners and participants, followed by closing remarks.
The programme was chaired by Imtilemla, NGISRSC, and attended by officials from the District Administration, NGISRSC, ISRO, NESAC and other government departments, along with students, teachers and other stakeholders.
(DPRO & Mamang, IA, Peren)
