Power of science

Context: IISF-2024, which concluded at IIT Guwahati on Tuesday, celebrated
India’s scientific achievements, underscoring the critical role of science and
technology in shaping the nation’s future. The four-day event witnessed a
wide-ranging display of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, with
participants from the scientific community as well as planners, policy makers, academia
and students coming together to explore the transformative power of science. The
success of IISF as a platform for inspiration and collaboration needs to be taken
to the next level for advancing India’s global scientific leadership.

Key points

·       Overview: The 10th
edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) took place at IIT
Guwahati from November 30 to December 3, 2024, marking a significant milestone
as the festival reaches the Northeast for the first time.

·       India
International Science Festival (IISF): India International Science
Festival is a collaborative endeavour between the Ministry of Science and
Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Department of Space and Department of
Atomic Energy in partnership with Vijnana Bharati – a science movement spearheaded
by scientists of the nation with swadeshi spirit.

Primary
Objective - To commemorate the world of science, making it accessible to all. To
engage the general populace with science in an enjoyable and entertaining
manner, thereby contributing to health, prosperity and meaningful life.

Significance - By means of its
inventive programs and initiatives, IISF extends opportunities for people and
scientific community, both within the country and internationally, to come
together, collaborate and partake in the gratification of advancing scientific
pursuits towards betterment of India and humanity.

·       (IISF),
2024 the 10^th edition: Aim - To acknowledge
the achievements of science enthusiasts and inculcate scientific temper among
young students and spread the same among the Indian citizens. IISF 2024 will
have a total of 17 themes to showcase scientific achievements offering diverse
benefits to participants and the public.

Central Theme - Science and
Technology Public Outreach in Amrit Kaal. India International Science Festival
aims to offer a myriad of benefits to people by serving as an educational and
inspirational platform.

Organiser - The event is
coordinated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), National
Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India, and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA).

·       Empowering
the Region and Youth: The event reserves 30% of registrations for
participants from the Northeast, providing opportunities for local talent to
engage with renowned scientists and innovators. Young minds will have a chance
to participate in competitions and experience cutting-edge innovations,
sparking new aspirations in science and technology.

·       Collaborative
Efforts: IISF-2024 is being organized by the Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR) in coordination with several ministries and Vijnana Bharati.
With India’s rapid progress in areas like space exploration and digital
technology, the festival reaffirms the nation’s commitment to becoming a
scientific and manufacturing powerhouse.