Bengaluru, September 21, 20206: Karnataka is planning a major revamp of Pilikula Nisargadhama in Mangaluru. State will prepare a comprehensive master plan for the development of its 339.90 acres. The tender process for preparing the plan will begin soon.
Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science & Technology Dr. Ajay Dharma Singh announced this during a review meeting in Bengaluru. Master plan will focus on science, environment, education and tourism. It will also examine the best use of the available land and existing facilities.
Plan will include the upgradation of existing facilities and development of new attractions. It will also focus on science education, biodiversity conservation and a better visitor experience.
Focus on Science and Eco-Tourism
Dr. Ajay Dharma Singh said Pilikula has strong natural assets, infrastructure and land for science and tourism. He directed officials to prepare a long-term plan covering the next 10 to 15 years. Minister said the potential to develop Pilikula as a major science and eco-tourism destination should be examined.
PPP Model to Be Examined
Government will also study the possibility of using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for selected components. Officials have been asked to identify facilities that can operate on a commercially sustainable basis.
Aim is to create sustainable revenue while preserving Pilikula's character and natural environment. Master plan will also examine new science experiences, visitor facilities and attractions that could attract tourists from across India and abroad.
Science Gallery Proposed for Kalyana Karnataka
Minister also directed officials to examine the feasibility of establishing a Science Gallery in Kalyana Karnataka. Proposed facility would make science more interactive and engaging for students and the public.
Dr. Ajay Dharma Singh referred to Science Gallery Bengaluru, which is part of the global Science Gallery Network and combines science, art and public engagement. He said a similar model could be explored for students and young people in Kalyana Karnataka.
Science Centres to Be Connected
Minister also asked officials to explore stronger links between Science Gallery Bengaluru, regional science centres and planetariums. Objective is to allow exhibitions, content and science experiences to be shared between institutions. He said science centres across Karnataka should work as a connected network rather than as isolated institutions.
Meeting was attended by Dr. N. Manjula, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology; former ISRO Chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar; and Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Chairman of the Karnataka Quantum Task Force and professor at IISc, along with senior officials and institutional heads.
Keywords: Pilikula Nisargadhama, Pilikula master plan, Mangaluru tourism, Karnataka science tourism, Pilikula development, Kalyana Karnataka Science Gallery, Citizen News Puttur