Image Courtesy: PIB
Marking a significant milestone in the Northeast region’s journey towards becoming a hub for scientific and technological innovation, the 10th edition of the prestigious India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 will be held for the first time in Guwahati. The festival will be held at IIT Guwahati campus from 30 November to 3 December.
In a recent curtain raiser function at National Media Centre in New Delhi, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said that the hosting of IISF in Guwahati is a testimony to the government’s commitment to the Northeast and aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on the region as a key player in India’s growth story.
Highlighting the unique importance of the venue, the minister said, “IIT Guwahati is not only one of the leading institutes of the country but also a symbol of how the Northeast is emerging as a focal point of India’s scientific advancements. Hosting IISF 2024 in the Northeast is not just about celebrating science; it’s about placing the region at the heart of India’s scientific future.”
The decision to host the festival in Guwahati reflects the Government’s broader strategy to promote inclusive development, particularly in regions historically underrepresented. The Prime Minister has consistently ununderscored the importance of bringing the Northeast closer to the rest of India and creating opportunities for it to play a critical role in the country’s progress. “The Northeast is rich in natural resources and talent, and this festival is an opportunity for the rest of the nation to recognise and engage with the potential that lies here,” Dr Singh added.
The theme of IISF 2024, ‘Transforming India into an S&T driven Global Manufacturing Hub’, reflects the government’s ambition to merge S&T with industrial growth, propelling India towards self-reliance and global leadership in manufacturing. The theme aligns closely with national initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ and will spotlight emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology.
Emphasising on the role of science in driving India’s future, Dr Singh said, “The next wave of India’s economic growth will be fuelled by advancements in biotechnology, bioeconomy, and space technology. This festival is a chance to highlight how science will shape the future of our economy, environment, and employment.” “The IISF will not only celebrate the country’s scientific achievements but also create opportunities for collaboration and innovation. This platform will bring together scientists, industry leaders, students, and the public to explore the transformative power of science, through discussions that will shape India’s future as a global leader in science and technology,” the minister added.
The IISF is being coordinated by CSIR and involves all major scientific departments and ministries in collaboration with Vijnana Bharati. The curtain raiser and the launch of the website was participated by Prof AK Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, Dr N Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR, Dr M Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Dr Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, and Dr Shiv Kumar Sharma, National Organising Secretary, Vijnana Bharati.
