Patna: The Bihar government has announced plans to construct digital planetariums in three districts, aiming to give residents a closer look at the mysteries of space. The Department of Science, Technology and Technical Development revealed that the facilities, which will also serve as Space and Astronomy Education Centres, will be established in East Champaran, Jamui, and Purnea with support from the central government.
An administrative sanction of Rs 39 crore has been approved for the project, with construction scheduled to begin in the 2026–27 financial year.
In a related development, the government had earlier approved Rs 73.04 crore in 2025–26 for a new Government Polytechnic in Bagaha subdivision, West Champaran district, with construction similarly set to start in 2026–27.
Incubation Hub for Startups
To support innovation and entrepreneurship, an incubation centre will also be established at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Patna. The facility, costing Rs 47.76 crore, will provide technical guidance, legal documentation support, and business networking opportunities for startups originating from government engineering colleges and NIT Patna.
Focus on Emerging Technologies
The move comes as engineering colleges in Bihar expand their curriculum to include emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Internet of Things, Cybersecurity, Blockchain Technology, Networking, Civil Engineering with Computer Applications, and 3D Animation and Graphics. The government hopes these initiatives will strengthen technical education and foster a culture of innovation in the state.
