IAS Officer Transforms Rural Maharashtra: Science Parks and Sports Complexes for Chandrapur's Children

Vivek Johnson's Vision Unleashes a Wave of Scientific Curiosity and Sporting Talent in Chandrapur District

In a visionary move to ignite a love for science and sports among rural children, IAS officer Vivek Johnson has spearheaded a remarkable transformation in Maharashtra's Chandrapur district. Inspired by the success of Nagpur's open science parks, Johnson embarked on a mission to provide similar opportunities to the students of Chandrapur, aiming to nurture their scientific curiosity and sporting talents.

Science Parks Spur Curiosity:

Johnson's initiative saw the establishment of 28 open science parks across Chandrapur district, with plans for 50 more in the pipeline. These parks, sprawling across 6,500 square feet each, offer a playground of scientific exploration for rural children. Equipped with models elucidating Newton's laws, the periodic table, solar systems, and more, these parks encourage hands-on learning experiences beyond traditional classroom settings. Dedicated teams of teachers facilitate this journey of discovery, guiding students through practical lessons and fostering a research-oriented mindset.

Empowering Young Athletes:

In tandem with the science parks, Johnson launched the Khelo Chanda Sports Complexes initiative, addressing the lack of dedicated spaces for play in rural areas. Seventy-five sports complexes have been strategically erected across 15 talukas of the district, providing accessible venues for physical activities. Complete with running tracks, basketball, and volleyball courts, these complexes serve as breeding grounds for sporting talent. By utilizing funds from MGNREGA and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Johnson ensured the basic infrastructure for these complexes, including leveling of grounds, LED lighting, and restroom facilities.

Recognition and Impact:Johnson's exemplary efforts haven't gone unnoticed. Recognized with the 'Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year' award in the 'IAS Promising' category, his initiatives have garnered widespread praise. With an estimated 10,000 rural students benefiting from the sports complexes and science parks, Johnson's work is not just transforming Chandrapur's educational landscape but also fostering a generation of scientifically curious and athletically adept individuals.

Vision for the Future:

Reflecting on the district's transformation, Johnson acknowledges the collaborative effort of his team and the unwavering support of the Zilla Parishad. As he continues to steer Chandrapur towards greater heights, his journey stands as a testament to the immense impact that dedicated individuals can have in shaping the future of their communities.

Reference:

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