IISF 2024 kicks off at IIT, Guwahati

India ranks among the top 3 nations among the scientific research: Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma
GUWAHATI: Under the aegis of the Ministry of Science and Technology, and Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) inaugurated the 10th edition of India International Science Festival 2024 (IISF 2024), today, 30th November 2024, at IIT Guwahati, in association with Vijnana Bharathi, the nodal institute of the event being CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram.Celebrating India’s scientific achievements and fostering innovation, the festival was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Govt. of India, who delivered the Presidential address. Other dignitaries included Smr. Dasanglu Pul, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, and Shri Keshab Mahanta, Minister for Science & Technology, Govt. of Assam.Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma,  Chief Minister of Assam, remarked, “IISF 2024 is a celebration of collective efforts in scientific innovation and collaboration. This festival would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Honorable Prime Minister. IISF 2024 stands as a grand celebration of scientific innovation and collaboration, featuring numerous innovations catering to a diverse audience. It showcases India’s remarkable achievements, such as Chandrayaan-2, and includes a science expo that highlights cutting-edge research and technology. The festival promises a dynamic exploration of science through events like the Young Scientists’ Conclave, Science Safari, and Tinker Labs, aimed at igniting curiosity and fostering innovation among students.”India ranks among the top 3 nations among the scientific research. This is the testament of science and technology advancement in the country, he added.He further said that, “With special features like Nari Shakti celebrating women in STEM, Science Beyond Borders fostering global partnerships, and initiatives like Sagrika and Science Village, IISF 2024 is a true celebration of innovation and sustainability. With India ranking among the top three in scientific research and excelling in startups, we are poised to become a global leader in innovation, supported by being the third-highest producer of PhDs worldwide.”Delivering the Presidential Address, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister for Science and Technology, Govt. of India, said, “India’s remarkable growth story is deeply rooted in its advancements in science, technology, and innovation. Over the past decade, under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, we have seen a profound transformation across sectors—from the rise of start-ups to revolutionary breakthroughs in biotechnology, space technology, and quantum science. The Northeast region, once on the periphery of development, has become a shining example of growth, embodying both economic progress and scientific innovation. As we approach India@2047, empowering youth and fostering innovation are key. Initiatives like the National Research Foundation and the bioeconomy revolution are driving India toward self-reliance and global leadership, with young innovators leading the way.”