Bhubaneswar: The only Earth Science and Technology Cell (ESTC) at Berhampur University, Odisha, may cease to exist in the near future. The reason for it being shut down is the negligence of the university towards the cell’s management. Projects coming through ESTC have also stopped due to the irresponsibility of the university authority, alleged students.
Berhampur University signed an MoU with the Department of Ocean Development (DOD), Government of India on January 15, 1998. That is how the Earth Science and Technology Cell was established as an autonomous cell on Marine Coastal Ecology. It focuses on the promotion and implementation of advanced studies and research on marine coastal ecology.
The university authority recently sent a letter to the state government to close the cell.
ESTC used to create employment opportunities for researchers and students of other universities in the state. It’s shutting down will have a direct impact on jobs in the state.
Berhampur University Vice Chancellor Govind J Chakrapani is reported to have said that the university decided to shut down the cell as the Central government is not releasing any funds.