The Indian Space Research Organization, ISRO, is promoting space technology in a big way. It has set up space technology cells at IIT Bombay, Kanpur, Kharagpur and Madras. Similar cells have also been set up in the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore and in Pune University to carry out research activities in space technology and applications. <br/><br/>In addition, ISRO is also funding eight other universities to strengthen activities relating to space research. Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office Jitendra Singh gave this information in the Lok Sabha today. He said the Department of Space has also taken initiatives to promote interest in space science and research among the youth. The focus is on studies in planetary science and exploration. It regularly organises workshops, exhibitions and outreach programmes to promote interest in space science and technology among the students, he said.