Lucknow: Preparations for the upcoming India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 have officially begun, with NBRI hosting a curtain-raiser event at the KN Kaul Block to introduce and promote the festival. The programme saw participation from eminent scientists, academicians, and representatives of various scientific institutions.
Ankit Rai, Organising Secretary, Awadh Prant, Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), and Dr. Rajneesh Chaturvedi, Chief Scientist, IITR, graced the event as chief guests. The curtain-raiser aimed to generate awareness and enthusiasm for IISF 2025, scheduled to be held in Chandigarh from December 6 to 9. The festival is being organised by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, in collaboration with various science ministries, departments, and VIBHA.
In his inaugural address, NBRI Director Dr. Ajit Kumar Shasani highlighted India’s rich scientific heritage, traditional education systems, and NBRI’s contributions to national research. He encouraged students to take pride in India’s scientific legacy and actively participate in modern research and innovation.
The theme for IISF 2025 is “Prosperity Through Science: Towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat”. The theme reflects the belief that true progress is achieved through the application of science, transforming ideas into innovation, discoveries into development, and scientific knowledge into social welfare. The festival will bring together scientists, innovators, educators, students, industry leaders, and policymakers on one platform to promote knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Speaking on the occasion, VIBHA Secretary Ankit Rai discussed the inception and journey of the science festival and emphasised the organisation’s significant role in its success. He noted that VIBHA has been a co-organiser since the festival’s inception, helping strengthen scientific awareness and public participation across the country.
Dr. Rajneesh Chaturvedi of IITR informed students about the diverse career opportunities available in the field of science. He encouraged them to adopt science-driven careers to contribute to national development, innovation-led growth, and the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
A key highlight of the event was the screening of the official promotional video of IISF 2025, which offered participants an immersive overview of the festival’s vision and scope.
Over 100 students from SR Group of Institutions, Lucknow, visited NBRI on this occasion. They interacted with scientists and explored research and laboratory facilities related to plant biotechnology, floriculture, taxonomy, and conservation.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Manish Bhoyar, Principal Scientist, while the programme was conducted by Senior Technical Officer Dr. K.K. Rawat.
