Jharkhand is set to take a major step in promoting scientific education and tourism with the establishment of its first Science City in Ranchi, along with regional science centres in Jamshedpur and Dhanbad. The initiative aims to enhance innovation, scientific awareness, and curiosity among students and visitors while positioning the state as a science learning hub.
Currently, Ranchi houses a Regional Science Centre, which will soon be upgraded into a full-fledged Science City. According to Dr. Raj Shekhar Prasad, Executive Director of the Jharkhand Council on Science, Technology and Innovation (JCSTI), an additional 26 acres of land have been allocated for expansion. The upgraded facility will provide advanced exhibits, interactive learning spaces, and research opportunities.
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project, prepared by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) under the Union Ministry of Culture, is awaiting approval from the state cabinet before being sent to the Centre. The project’s cost is estimated at INR 270 crore, marking a major investment in science education and infrastructure in Jharkhand.
Once operational, the Science City will include six new galleries, adding to the existing three. It will focus on areas such as space science, robotics, environment, and sustainable innovation, encouraging public engagement and tourism in Ranchi. The goal is to make science accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring for learners of all ages.
Dr. Prasad shared that similar regional science centres are being planned for Jamshedpur and Dhanbad, chosen for their population and regional importance. Construction is already underway in Deoghar, where a planetarium and district science centre are being developed at Nandan Kanan Hill. In Sahibganj, a new science centre will soon function from a renovated old ITI building in Rajmahal.
Local experts like Dr. Ranjit Kumar Singh of Model College, Rajmahal, believe these centres will transform how students understand science through hands-on learning in robotics, climate studies, and astronomy. With ongoing projects in Giridih, Gumla, and Lohardaga, Jharkhand is preparing to become a dynamic hub of science tourism and innovation, fostering a culture of curiosity and education across the state.