CSIR-NIScPR and CSIR-NPL Organise Curtain Raiser for IISF 2025
The Curtain Raiser for the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 was held at Vivekananda Hall, CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), Pusa Campus, New Delhi. The event was jointly organised by CSIR-NIScPR and CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) and coincided with the observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
Welcome Address and Introductory Remarks
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, delivered the Welcome Address, outlining the vision for IISF 2025 and presenting the key thematic events. She highlighted the importance of the Science & Technology Media Conclave and Vigyanika – Science Literature Festival, both coordinated by CSIR-NIScPR.
Dr. Sanjay R. Dhakate, Officiating Director, CSIR-NPL, provided the Introductory Remarks, discussing the 11th edition of IISF and the role of science in national development. He also emphasized the significance of India’s time standard, maintained by the National Physical Laboratory.
Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and Expert Address
Shri R.K.S. Roushan, Controller of Administration, CSIR-NIScPR, addressed the gathering on the importance of observing Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. He reflected on the scientific knowledge and practices of tribal communities from ancient times.
Dr. Rakesh Tripathi, Education Officer, National Science Centre, New Delhi, delivered an address on the essence of science and its relevance to daily life. He conducted experiments for students and explained the differences between scientific principles, tricks, and illusions.
Students from PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya participated in the event, contributing curiosity and engagement to the proceedings.
Highlights of IISF 2025
Dr. Manish Mohan Gore, Coordinator of the Science & Technology Media Conclave, outlined the major features of the 11th IISF. He presented the objectives of the S&T Media Conclave and discussed the expanding role of science and technology across sectors, including sessions on new science journalism trends and the application of AI in military operations such as Operation Sindoor.
Dr. Paramananda Barman, Coordinator of Vigyanika, discussed CSIR-NIScPR’s contributions to science communication and the significance of science for all. He provided an overview of Vigyanika – Science Literature Festival, a central component of IISF 2025.
Special Addresses
Dr. Jagvir Singh, Scientist G and Adviser, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), highlighted the wide scope of science, including earth sciences. He spoke on the role of science in everyday life, the national impact of IISF, and India’s achievements in various science Olympiads.
Prof. Avinash Chandra Pandey, Director, Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), addressed IISF, India’s scientific capabilities, and major national missions such as Gaganyaan and Samudrayaan.
Conclusion of the Event
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Sumit Mishra, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-NPL, who acknowledged the contributions of organisers, speakers, and participants, emphasizing the role of IISF 2025 in promoting scientific temper nationwide.