52/2023-2024

Aizawl, the 18th May 2023: The Department of Physics, Mizoram University(MZU) in collaboration with Mizoram Science Centre, Directorate Of Science & Technology, GoM organised the Two Days ‘International Symposium on History of Astronomy of the Mizo People’ in the campus of Mizoram University and at Mizoram Science Centre, Berawtlang. Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati, the Chief Rector of MZU inaugurated the symposium at the official function organised at Auditorium, MZU today.

Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati cited the subject of Astronomy as an intriguing, interesting and exciting which encompassed humanity as people across the globe shared the same sky. He congratulated the Organizing Committee for making this International Symposium a reality. He hopes that this program will enable a valuable exchange of knowledge and experience among the participants in the exciting field of Basic Astronomy, and the traditional knowledge of Astronomy according to the Mizo people.

He spoke about how Indians have especially been blessed with world-renowned astronomers throughout history, since the time of Aryabhatta. He also expressed appreciation and amazement at learning how the traditional Mizo people also had a deep knowledge of the stars. He urged the Department of Physics, Mizoram University(MZU) and the Mizoram Science Centre to keep up their good work and keep inspiring the younger generation to have a deeper knowledge of the stars and the sky. He also stressed the importance of space science and how it is now the study at which advanced countries are competing. He wished the experienced Speakers and Panelists to make this Symposium a grand success.

Full Speech of the Governor: dipr.mizoram.gov.in/post/speech-of-dr-hari-babu-kambhampati-honble-governor-of-mizoram-on-the-occasion-of-international-symposium-on-history-of-astronomy-of-the-mizo-people-organized-by-department-of-physics-mizoram-university-directorate-of-science-technology-government-of-mizor

The inaugural function of the symposium commenced with an introduction to the theme by Prof. Zaithanzauva Pachuau, HOD Physics Dept. After the inaugural address, the main speaker Dr Martin George, Australia Principal Astronomer, Hive Planetarium, Tasmania, Australia and Chair of International Development, International Planetarium Society was invited. Prof. Pravakar Rath, MZU Acting Vice Chancellor and Prof. Diwakar Tiwari, Dean of SPS were the other speakers. The inaugural session concluded with a comment and a vote of thanks proposed by Er. H. Lalsawmliana, CSO, DST.