Embarking on the Marvels of Science:
By: Reyaz Ahmad Ganai
The India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023- a mega science fest to discover the realms of science, technology, and innovation at Faridabad, Haryana has been captivating visitors and audiences at large. The festival began on January 17th and shall be concluded on January 20th, 2024.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Govt. of India organized the 9th edition of the festival and National Innovation Foundation-India is the coordinating and implementing body of IISF 2023.Collaboratively organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Department of Space and Department of Atomic Energy, in partnership with Vijnana Bharati, this event promises a fusion of knowledge and entertainment at Biotechnology Institutes, Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) located in Faridabad (Haryana).
The theme of the festival- ‘Science and Technology, Public Outreach in AmritKaal’- and driven by the aim of ‘Science for All’, IISF strives to bring science closer to diverse audiences as the main focus at the festival is to focus on making science accessible to educators, students, scientists, researchers, business professionals, industry experts and science communicators, contributing to the well-being and prosperity of individuals. Through innovative programs, IISF provides a platform for collaboration, sharing, and advancing scientific pursuits.
Furthermore, the aim of this science festival is also to celebrate the achievements of India in the frontier areas of science and technology besides acknowledging the achievements of science enthusiasts and inculcate scientific temperament among young students.
This time, 22 countries are participating in IISF 2023. These include the Argentine Republic, the Republic of Armenia, the Commonwealth of Australia, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the French Republic, the Federal Republic of Germany, the Republic of Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Kenya, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Republic of Namibia, Republic of the Philippines, Republic of Rwanda, Republic of Singapore, Republic of South Africa, Kingdom of Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America (USA), Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and Republic of Zimbabwe.
The festival offers a diverse array of events, including the ‘Student Science Festival’, ‘Vigyanika Science Literature Festival’, ‘Science through Games & Toys’, ‘Students Innovation Festival Space Hackathon’, ‘Education for Aspiring India National Science Teachers Workshop’, ‘Young Scientists Conference’, ‘New Age Technology Show’, ‘National Social Organisations and Institutions Meet; Science, Technology, and Innovation Exhibition, Start-up, Technology, and Innovation B to B Meet, and Science & Technology Media and Communicators Conclave.
The Student Science Village program invites students from classes VIII to XI to partake in an interactive journey of scientific exploration. Through hands-on experiments and interactions with leading scientists, this initiative aims to instil scientific temperaments, creativity, and innovation in the younger generation.
Recognizing the pivotal role of teachers, the National Science Teachers Workshop gathers dedicated educators from across the country. It promotes experiential learning, emphasizes key concepts, and encourages problem-solving skills, aligning with the changing needs of society outlined in the NEP 2020.
Face to Face with New Frontiers of Science & Technology: Charting the Course for the Future. This program facilitates direct engagement between students, researchers, and eminent personalities in various S&T fields, focusing on green technology and innovation, inspiring curiosity in areas such as space exploration, AI, and robotics.
Science through Games & Toys: Making Learning a Playful Adventure- Acknowledging the importance of early exposure to STEAM subjects, this initiative showcases traditional and contemporary games and toys, fostering a passion for science from a young age.
Women Scientists and Entrepreneurs Conclave (Empowering Women)- A ground breaking initiative providing a platform for aspiring women leaders in science, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and technology, aiming to ignite determination and purpose in women.
State S & T Ministers and Center and States S & T Secretaries and officials Conclave- A significant gathering of Ministers, Secretaries, and Officials in the field of Science and Technology, fostering discussions on policies, endeavors, and obstacles to facilitate holistic progress.
Journey from Jammu and Kashmir, a Shining Example- The inclusion of students from Jammu and Kashmir in the Students Science Village program showcases IISF’s commitment to inclusivity and nationwide participation.
As IISF 2023 unfolds, it stands as a celebration of science, innovation, and human curiosity. Whether you’re a student, teacher, scientist, or simply a curious mind, join this thrilling exploration of knowledge and discovery. The grand spectacle awaits from January 17 to January 20, 2024, at the Department of Biotechnology, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), and the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB) Campus in Faridabad, Haryana. Be prepared to be inspired by the wonders of scientific exploration at IISF 2023!
The author is an Educator, Innovator and Writer working at Government Boys Middle School Sheeri Payeen Zone Fatehgarh Baramulla and is among three teachers selected for IISF’s Education for Aspiring India – National Science Teachers Workshop.
