A student observes a specimen through a microscope at a science and technology exhibition held in St. Albert’s College, Ernakulam, as part of the 38th Kerala Science Congress on 31 January 2026. | Photo credit: RK Nithin
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday (January 31, 2026) warned against attempts to glorify superstitions and regressive practices by projecting irrational stories from myths and legends as ancient scientific discoveries.
He said that such tendencies pose a serious threat to the scientific temper and rational thinking in society. The Chief Minister inaugurated the 38th Kerala Science Congress in Kochi. He added that society must actively resist efforts to revive blind beliefs and unscientific practices, and emphasized the need to openly expose stories that project irrational mythological claims as historical inventions. Industry Minister P. Rajeeve delivered the opening speech.
In his keynote address, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Chairman V. Narayanan said that Kerala plays a crucial role in India’s national growth. Recalling the situation at the time of independence in 1947, he said the country faced serious problems, including widespread poverty, low life expectancy, high mortality, limited industrialization and weak technological infrastructure. Under these conditions, India has made remarkable progress, he said.
“Kerala is home to several institutions of national importance, including research centers in science and technology, life sciences, biotechnology, climate studies and public health. High levels of literacy and social inclusion have transformed the state into a laboratory for models of human development,” he added.
During the inaugural function, the Chief Minister presented the Kerala Science Award 2024 to Dr. Tessa Thomas. He also distributed state government awards for science and technology, including the Kerala State Young Scientist Award, the Best Scientist Award and the Science Literature and Media Awards.
Published – 01 Feb 2026 23:53 IST
