Karnataka to expand telescope scheme to all govt schools

The state government is set to expand its flagship Telescope Distribution Scheme, moving beyond the current coverage of Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society (KRIES), to include a wider network of government schools across the state.

Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology N S Boseraju announced the proposal on Wednesday, confirming that a request for additional funding would be placed before the chief minister during the next budget meeting. 

Speaking at the inauguration of a training programme for KRIES school teachers at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Boseraju highlighted the success of the ongoing initiative. The scheme has already equipped 833 residential schools and PU colleges with telescopes at a total cost of Rs 3 crore, a feat he noted was unmatched by any other government department in the country on this scale.

“We must cultivate scientific temper, rational thinking and curiosity among students in an era driven by knowledge and innovation,” Boseraju stated. 

The expansion plan focuses heavily on effectiveness. The minister emphasised that the goal is not merely to distribute equipment but to ensure integration into classroom learning. 

The ongoing phase-wise training sessions are designed to equip KRIES teachers with the skills to properly operate and maintain the telescopes, inspiring astronomical interest among students. 

Boseraju also unveiled the 2026 Astronomical Calendar, developed by the Department of Science and Technology. The calendar will serve as a practical guide for teachers, helping them schedule and conduct observation sessions aligned with monthly celestial events. 

“Teachers are the architects of future scientists. I urge you to make full use of this training and spark scientific curiosity in your classrooms,” the minister stated. 

N Manjula, Secretary, IT&BT, Science & Technology Department, and other officials were present at the event.