“Why not take science to the people instead of taking people to the science? And what better way than the Indian railway network, which is so vast that it is the largest network in the world. And it is stretched across the country. Each and every nook and corner of India is connected by the railway network,” said Mohan.

The train stops at each station for three to four days and young people have a chance to take part in the hands-on laboratory where educators help them conduct experiments highlighting math and science principles.

Educators reach out

For some of these children, particularly from small towns in the farthest corners of India, this is a rare opportunity to learn beyond the four walls of their classroom.

Seeing their reaction makes riding the rails worth it for educators like Pandya.

“Fascinating experiments or sort of things - when they come to know - they say ‘oh wow.’ So this 'wow factor' you see it in their eyes. In our childhood we have not gotten such sort of exposure,” said Pandya.

The Science Express train is making its way through eastern India, with stops planned in West Bengal and Orissa states in July. The moving exhibit is expected to attract its 10 millionth visitor by the end of this year.