Bengaluru/ Mangaluru: The state govt is preparing a comprehensive master plan to transform Pilikula Nisargadhama into an integrated hub for science, environment, education and tourism, and the tender process for preparing the plan will be initiated shortly, said science & technology minister Ajay Dharma Singh.Chairing a progress review meeting in Bengaluru with senior sience & technology department officials, scientists and heads of affiliated institutions, the minister reviewed key projects and upcoming initiatives of the department.On Pilikula, the minister said the master plan should cover optimum utilisation of the available 339.9 acres, upgrade of existing facilities, development of new attractions, science education, conservation of biodiversity and the environment, and an improved visitor experience.“Pilikula already has strong natural assets, land and infrastructure supporting science and tourism. Instead of developing it in a fragmented manner, we need a comprehensive plan that looks at the next 10–15 years. The potential to position Pilikula as one of the country’s leading science and eco-tourism destinations should be explored,” he said.The minister directed officials to examine which components of the Pilikula development could be taken up through public-private partnership (PPP) model, and identify facilities that could be managed on a commercially sustainable basis, without compromising the character of the destination.“Pilikula should gradually move towards a model that is financially sustainable while preserving its uniqueness. The master plan must examine new science experiences, visitor facilities and attractions that can draw tourists from India and abroad, and create sustainable revenue streams,” Ajay Dharma Singh said.He said that science centres across Karnataka should evolve as a connected network, rather than operate as isolated institutions, allowing students in different regions to access fresh exhibitions and learning experiences on a continuing basis.N Manjula, secretary, department of electronics, information technology, biotechnology and science & technology; former Isro chairperson AS Kiran Kumar; Prof Arindam Ghosh, chairperson of the Karnataka Quantum Task Force and professor at IISc, along with senior officials and heads of various institutions were present.
