Q1: Why is science communication important in rural Odisha?
Many people think science is only for scientists. But in reality, science affects our everyday life — from the food we eat to the medicines we use. In rural Odisha, lack of scientific awareness often leads to misinformation, unsafe health practices, and poor agricultural decisions. That’s why Suprativa believes that making science simple, local, and relatable can bring real change.
Through its grassroots programs, Suprativa is building a culture where rural communities understand and trust science, making smarter choices in health, farming, and family life.
Q2: What are the biggest challenges in science communication in remote areas?
There are three major hurdles:
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Low literacy levels: Written material doesn’t always work.
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Cultural beliefs: Superstitions often replace scientific reasoning.
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Language barrier: Most resources are in English or Hindi, not in local dialects.
Suprativa addresses all three by using visual, oral, and hands-on tools in Odia and tribal languages.
Q3: What kind of programs does Suprativa run for science communication?
Suprativa’s science outreach is creative, fun, and deeply local. Programs include:
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Science Puppet Shows: These are used to explain complex topics like vaccination, menstrual hygiene, or climate change through folk characters and local stories.
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Mobile Science Vans: Equipped with solar kits, basic science models, and interactive tools, these vans travel to interior villages and schools.
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Radio & Community Podcasts: Suprativa partners with local FM stations to run weekly shows on science facts, farming innovations, and weather updates.
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Illustrated Booklets: Simple, picture-based materials on topics like nutrition, clean water, and mobile phone safety are distributed to families and schools.
Q4: Who benefits the most from these programs?
Everyone! But the major beneficiaries include:
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Farmers: They learn about organic composting, pest control, and weather patterns.
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Women & Girls: Topics like menstrual hygiene, nutrition, and home-based remedies are explained with dignity and clarity.
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Schoolchildren: Suprativa introduces “science games” that encourage curiosity and hands-on learning.
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Elderly & Tribal Communities: Sessions include safe use of medicines, clean drinking water, and myths vs. facts about diseases.
The best part? These programs are inclusive, participatory, and non-judgmental.
Q5: How does Suprativa measure impact?
The organization uses both qualitative and quantitative methods:
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Before & After Surveys: To track change in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior
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Feedback Circles: Villagers share what they understood and how they used the knowledge
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Adoption Rate: Example — after a menstrual hygiene session, how many girls actually started using pads?
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Community Champions: Suprativa identifies local volunteers who continue spreading scientific ideas after initial training.
Results from 2021–2024 show a 40–60% increase in awareness levels across themes like vaccine myths, water purification, and pesticide usage.
Q6: Any real-life success story from the field?
Yes, many! One example is Bajrakota village in Kandhamal. Before Suprativa’s intervention, villagers believed that diarrhea in children was caused by evil spirits. A puppet show on germs and water safety changed their perspective. Today, most homes boil or filter water, and child health has improved dramatically.
Another story comes from a tribal girl named Kalpana, who attended a science workshop and went on to build a basic solar light model. She now leads a small student group teaching others how solar energy works.
Q7: What’s next for Suprativa’s science communication efforts?
The future plans include:
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Launching a YouTube channel in Odia with simple science explainers
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Introducing science corners in rural libraries
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Expanding the mobile van model to tribal belts of Malkangiri and Koraput
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Creating DIY science kits for school use
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Partnering with CSIR and universities for mobile lab access
Suprativa’s dream is to make scientific thinking a rural norm, not an exception.
Science communication is not about fancy labs or high-tech experiments. It’s about sharing truth in a language people understand. Suprativa is bridging that gap with creativity, care, and cultural sensitivity — making science a friend, not a mystery.
