Science isn’t just for scientists—it’s for everyone. Science has long been the harbinger of innovation and progress, shaping the world we live in today. It is the realm of wonders and possibilities that shapes our world, from the gadgets we use daily to the exploration of distant planets. To realise and explore the magnificence of the scientific world, let us get immersed into the 9th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) from 17th to 20th January 2024 at the combined campus of Translational Health Science and Technology Institute and Regional Centre for Biotechnology at NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad.
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has embarked on a transformative journey in Science and Technology (S&T). The roadmap for 2047 reflects a resolute commitment to harnessing S&T’s power for national prosperity. Towards this sacred mission, the India International Science Festival (IISF) is a celebration to open the doors of science to all, inviting us to marvel at its beauty, understand its complexities, and dream of its endless possibilities. It stands as a testament to the celebration of scientific exploration, fostering a culture of curiosity, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Journey of IISF
The journey of IISF is nothing short of remarkable. Through the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and Vijnana Bharati, in the year 2015, IISF marked the beginning of an odyssey that has traversed through eight successful editions, each leaving an indelible mark on India’s diverse landscape, from north to south and east to west, epitomizing a commitment to reaching every nook and corner of the nation. Even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world faced adversity, IISF displayed resilience by seamlessly transitioning to virtual platforms, ensuring uninterrupted scientific engagement and knowledge dissemination and that the spirit of scientific exploration continued undeterred. Lately, in the year 2021, the Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Space joined hands in strengthening India’s scientific temperament through this festival.
This year IISF is taking place at Faridabad in the state of Haryana, while the Government of Haryana is providing privileged support for the smooth and successful conduct of this mega science festival.
The Heartbeat of IISF
The theme of this edition of IISF is ‘Science and Technology Public Outreach in Amrit Kaal’. Through a diverse array of programs and initiatives tailored for everyone, IISF 2023 is ensuring the dissemination of scientific knowledge and India’s scientific achievements to the general populace. For instance, the event Student Science Village offers a vibrant platform for budding young minds hailing from far-flung areas of India to delve into hands-on experiments, interact with scientists, and unravel the mysteries of the scientific world. From Face-to-Face sessions with pioneers in various scientific fields fostering inspiration and mentorship to exploring science through Games and Toys that bridge the gap between education and entertainment, leveraging play to instil a love for STEM subjects in children, IISF beautifully creates a playground of learning that is joyful, fun and enlightening.
At the heart of IISF lies a mission to ignite the flames of innovation. The Students Innovation Festival – Space Hackathon challenges young enthusiasts to solve the complexities of space expeditions. In this way, the festival exposes the next generation to real-world problems and tinkers with the innovativity of young beautiful minds.
Vigyanika – Science Literature Festival takes us on a journey through magical words and imagination, where the pages of science come alive celebrating the fusion of science and creativity, featuring keynote lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and competitions. It is a celebration of India’s strides in science and a platform to spark conversations that bridge the gap between science and society. The festival’s commitment to nurturing budding scientists and teachers is evident in initiatives like the Young Scientists’ Conference, and the Education for Aspiring India – National Science Teachers Workshop. These platforms provide invaluable opportunities for young minds to showcase innovations, exchange ideas, and chart the course for India’s scientific future.
With a myriad of events, the festival serves as a convergence point for diverse stakeholders in the S&T landscape. The event New Age Technologies Show ensures the enlightenment of the people with the current technological advancements in different scientific fields whereas S&T Media and Communicators Conclave acts as a forum to foster dialogue, disseminate scientific knowledge, and propel India’s scientific vision to the forefront. Events like the National Social Organizations and Institutions Meet (NSOIM), the State S & T Ministers and Center and States S & T Secretaries Conclave, and the Start-up, Technology, and Innovation B2B Meet facilitate discussions, promote partnerships, and synchronize efforts for holistic progress in science and technology.
The Guinness World Record of previous IISF editions has been dropped this year. Instead, the festival has introduced the IISF challenge to pursue the young minds to accept challenges and achieve new milestones.
The festival isn’t just about test tubes and equations; it is about inclusivity. It celebrates the rich tapestry of India’s cultural heritage through a vibrant Cultural Programme — a showcase of music, dance, and art that embodies the essence of unity in diversity.
Beyond the realms of programs and initiatives, IISF transcends into impacting society at large. Its inclusive approach ensures representation from all strata of society, promoting scientific temperament among the masses. It fosters a culture of scientific curiosity, encouraging critical thinking, and nurturing a spirit of innovation among the youth, inspires the next generation of innovators, and encourages us to look at the world through the lens of science. It’s not just about learning formulas but understanding the marvels that shape our lives. IISF sparks conversations, nurtures talent, and fuels our imagination for a brighter, technologically advanced future.
The India International Science Festival stands as a testament to the power of scientific exploration and innovation. Its evolution, from inception to its current stature, highlights India’s commitment to nurturing a culture of scientific inquiry and technological advancement. The cumulative impact of IISF resonates through its multifaceted initiatives. It has become a pivotal platform for showcasing India’s scientific achievements, stimulating collaborations, and inspiring a new generation of scientists and innovators. By providing a stage for interaction between scientists, policymakers, technocrats, educators, and the public, IISF continues to shape India’s scientific trajectory.
The Final Word
The India International Science Festival isn’t merely an event; it’s a celebration of human ingenuity, a testament to our insatiable quest for knowledge. Its an invitation for all of us — regardless of age, background, or profession — to join hands, explore, and embrace the wonders of science.
As we step into the world of IISF, we are not just spectators; we are explorers, dreamers, and contributors to the magnificent world of science that shapes our tomorrow. So, let us immerse ourselves in this carnival of curiosity, for in the journey of discovering science, we discover ourselves.
*The writer is Director, National Innovation Foundation, Ahmedabad, and National Chief Coordinator for India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023.
