“It is essential to increase students’ interest in science and technology. The experiments they conduct based on their acquired knowledge should help solve the problems of villages and society,” said Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari. He was speaking during an interaction with school students at the Blind Relief Association auditorium. The State-level ‘Future Programme’, organised by Pi Jam Foundation, was inaugurated by Gadkari. The event was attended by Vinayak Mahamuni, Chief Executive Officer of the District Council, along with Shoaib Dar from the Foundation and Coordinator Sanjay Hardas. Gadkari stated, “It is commendable that a science exhibition has been organised with the objective of sparking an interest in science among rural students studying in District Council schools. Encouraging their curiosity and motivating them to conduct new experiments is important. I extend special congratulations to the Pi Jam Foundation and the District Council for this noble initiative.” He emphasised that science is deeply connected to life. “To achieve great things in life, one must have knowledge of science and technology. The students from rural schools have showcased various experiments here. They should reflect on which of these experiments can help solve issues in their villages or communities,” he added. Gadkari also shared an example of ‘Waste to Wealth’. He explained, “Nothing is truly waste. With the right perspective, even discarded materials can be put to good use. Plastic waste can be converted into crude oil, while organic waste can produce CNG. Old clothes can be transformed into bags, which are in high demand. In Nagpur, a young woman named Dhote has trained many girls and women in the art of applying mehendi. Today, this skill has created a large number of employment opportunities.” He announced that a Global University of Logistics and Skill Development will be established on a 100-acre site in Nagpur. A MoU has been signed, which aims to provide world-class training to youth from rural areas.