Bhubaneswar 19 Nov 2024 ( pratyushanews ) : IMMT India International Science Festival (IISF) is an initiative of Ministry of Science and Technology and Ministry of Earth Science of Government of India in association with Vijnana Bharati which is a science movement with Swadeshi spirit lead by eminent scientists of the country. The main purpose of IISF is the celebration of science by all. Engagement of common people with science in a joyful and entertaining manner is essential for the healthy, prosperous and meaningful life. Through its creative programs and activities, IISF provides opportunities to people and scientific fraternity in the country and abroad to come together, work together and experience the joy of doing science for the well-being of India and humanity. IISF is a mega science festival that celebrates the integration of science with society, showcasing Indian scientific achievements, promoting innovation, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. It is jointly organized by CSIR, DST, DBT, MOES, ISRO and DAE in collaboration with Vigyan Bharti (VIBHA). CSIR had been a Nodal Organization for organizing IISF in previous years, especially in 2020 (at CSIR-NISTADS), even during the COVID-19 pandemic, having the festival in online mode with more than 1.5 Lakh participants. 10th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 is scheduled to be held in Guwahati from November 30 to December 3, 2024 and will be coordinated by CSIR. CSIR-National Institute of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) will be the Nodal Institute. During the Curtain Raiser program on 4th Oct, 2024 at National Media Centre, New Delhi, Dr Jitendra Singh, Hon. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for S&T announced the theme of IISF 2024 as “Transforming India into an S&T driven Global Manufacturing Hub”. A series of Curtain Raiser events across the country are also being planned to build momentum and create awareness among various stakeholders and promote the event to engage a large section of society. CSIR-IMMT conducted the Curtain Raiser Event for IISF 2024 on November 19, 2024 (at 11:00 AM) to showcase the contributions to scientific research and outreach to inspire the large sectors in and around Bhubaneswar in particular and Odisha in general. Professor Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar, graced the event as the chief guest and Shri Praveen Ramadas, National Joint Organising Secretary, VIBHA, graced the event as the guest of honour. Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, Director, CSIR-IMMT, welcomed all the guests and emphasised the IISF activities undertaken to inculcate the scientific temperament among the people to transform India into a science and technology-driven global manufacturing hub. Dr Bikash Kumar Jena, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-IMMT and coordinator of the IISF event, presented the IISF Journey, highlighted the events to be covered during IISF 2024 and inspired all the participants to do the registration for active participation in the event. Shri Praveen Ramadas, National Joint Organising Secretary, VIBHA emphasized the auspicious day at the beginning of IISF 2024 on 30th November as the birth anniversary of great scientist Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose. He inspired the audience to think about the science of India for India to make Bharat Viswaguru as Viksit Bharat and Sashakt Bharat.
