Thematic Events
Chandrayaan
28 Nov – 3 Dec 2024
Sci-Tech Expo
SCIENCE-TECHNOLOGY-DEFENCE-SPACE EXHIBITION
The India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 is hosting a Science-Technology-Defence-Space Exhibition. The “IISF- Sci-Tech Expo 2024” will focus on India’s prideful achievements, advancements, breakthroughs, and success stories in the field of Science and Technology, Space, Defence, Promotion of Scientific Temperament, Hands-on Learning, Awareness on Societal Issues, Inspiring Future Generations, and more.
The top Indian Scientific/ Academic Organizations, R&D Labs, PSUs, Educational Institutes, State Councils, Grassroots Innovators, Start-ups, Entrepreneurs, etc., will participate in this Exhibition and showcase the contribution of Science and Technology, Space Advancements, Defence and Innovations to the country’s overall development. Various Technologies developed by Indian Scientific and R&D Institutions across the country will be on display to educate and enthusiast students, young scientists, educators, researchers, policymakers, and the general public. IISF 2024 Expo will also showcase various initiatives by the Hon’ble Prime Minister in the last ten years, like AatmaNirbhar Bharat, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, Smart Villages, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, etc.
The expo also features a wide range of scientific disciplines, including agriculture, healthcare, environmental science, biotechnology, and more. It offers people of all ages the opportunity to interact with scientists & experts and gain a deeper understanding of complex scientific concepts. This expo not only celebrates India’s scientific achievements, but also inspires the next generation of scientists and technologists to make meaningful contributions to the scientific world.
Note: There is no individual registration for the Sci-Tech Expo. The exhibition is open for all the public. For more details and queries, please contact at email: iisfexpo2024@gmail.com.
Lead Coordinator: VIBHA
Partner Coordinators: CSIR-NIIST, CSIR-IMMT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: VIBHA
Science Odyssey
Focused S&T for the North East
While the North Eastern states of India are rich in resources and cultural diversity, a few challenges are still unmet in terms of advancing Science, Technology and Innovation. Addressing these challenges is crucial for harnessing the potential of the Seven Sisters and ensuring balanced national development. These challenges include infrastructural constraints, R&D constraints, funding and investment concerns, gaps in skills and talents, cultural and social factors, policies, economic constraints, communication and dissemination issues, etc. IISF 2024 features a focused event on S&T particularly addressing the challenges faced by North East India. This initiative is aimed at addressing specific needs and advancing development in North East India.
There shall be two sessions per day, accommodating 250-300 participants exclusively from the North East. The sessions will include interactive public lectures and panel discussions.
- Agricultural Innovation
- Biodiversity/Conservation
- Disaster Management
- Renewable Energy
- Healthcare Innovation
- Infrastructure Development
- Education and Skill Development
- Science Culture
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NEIST
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, IIT-G, NIPER, NECTAR
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Make in India, Make for the World
Global Manufacturing Summit
The identified focal theme of IISF 2024 is “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub.” The focal theme for IISF 2024 is identified based on India’s emergence as a formidable global manufacturing hub and hence a key player in the global supply chain, driven by its strategic embrace of Science, Technology and Innovation, advanced manufacturing processes, and robust infrastructure. IISF 2024 aims at fostering a renaissance in the Indian manufacturing sector by harmonizing cutting-edge technologies with traditional practices, thereby orchestrating a new manufacturing era of precision and efficiency.
India’s strategic location and advanced manufacturing capabilities are attracting global companies seeking to scale operations and tap into the burgeoning Indian market. IISF 2024 will provide a platform for discussions and engagements aimed at the creation of integrated ecosystems that combine manufacturing, technology, and logistics, enhancing India’s role in the global supply chain and transforming India into a global manufacturing powerhouse.
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIIST
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DST, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Students S&T Village - The New Nalanda
The Students S&T Village, designed to engage and inspire the younger generations, will be an integral part of the India International Science Festival 2024. The S&T village shall feature a range of interactive exhibits and demonstrations across various disciplines of science and technology, thereby providing hands-on experience for students in exploring and experimenting with scientific concepts in a tangible way. This event is envisioned to spark students’ interest in STEM via educational games and challenges. These activities will encourage problem-solving and critical thinking while allowing students to apply scientific principles in a playful context.The S&T village will also showcase the final entries from the S&T Hackathon.
The New Nalanda will also feature activities related to Science through Games and Adventures. The program will be open to all students of classes VIII to XI. 75% of the student attendees shall be from North East India and Border Districts of India.
- Project Exhibitions
- Interactive Demonstrations
- Science Workshops
- Science Parliament
- Innovation Challenge
- Education Expo
- IISF Alumni Connect
Lead Coordinator: VIBHA
Partner Coordinators: CSIR-IMMT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Pragya Bharat
New Frontiers in S&T for Viksit Bharatt
Pragya Bharat will feature new frontiers in S&T envisioning the advancement of science and technology that aligns with the broader goals of development and progress for a developed India by 2047. The event aims at promoting cutting-edge research across various scientific disciplines including:
- AI, ML and Big Data
- Quantum Computing
- Biotechnology and Genomics
- Sustainable Green Technologies
- Space Technologies
- Cybersecurity
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Healthcare Innovations
- Educational Technologies
- Automation and Robotics
The event will feature public engagement in every session, talk, and panel discussion, and a resolution based on these discussions shall be submitted as a white paper to the Government of India for further course of actions. Focusing on these new frontiers, India will be able to position itself as the global leader in S&T by 2047, thereby contributing to economic growth, social development, and technological advancements.
Lead Coordinator: DST
Partner Coordinators: CSIR, VIBHA
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Nari Shakti
Women’s Development to Women-led Development in S&T
The active participation of women in global STEM professions is 35-36%. The number of women S&T professionals saw an increase of a mere 6% over the past decade. The Government of India has brought about several schemes for promoting women in STEM and Entrepreneurship. Nari Shakti aims to represent a paradigm shift from women being beneficiaries or participants of S&T programs to empowering women to take formidable leadership roles in these competitive sectors to lead and drive innovation.
The event will focus on the active participation of women in focused discussions aimed at creating structures that support women’s leadership and ensuring their perspectives impact S&T policies and practices. The event shall also strive to establish mentorship programs and professional networks to help women leaders thrive and connect with peers.
- Leadership Summit
- Meet the CEOs
- Woman Innovators Conclave
- Build Your Network
- Work-Life Balance
Lead Coordinator: DBT
Partner Coordinators: CSIR, VIBHA
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
S&T Hackathon
Ideas for Viksit Bharat
The hackathon is designed to encourage school and college students to develop innovative solutions related to science and technology, focusing on Viksit Bharat Sankalp. The problem statements are put forward by all S&T, Space, Atomic Energy, and Earth Sciences Departments of the Government of India. A maximum of one team consisting of 3 members and 1 guide from each school/college will be eligible and will be screened before final selection.
There shall be 100 finalists, of which 20-25 shall be from North Eastern States. Ten finalists, among the 100, shall be awarded exciting prizes, and all 100 ideas at the finals shall be forwarded to the corresponding Department of the Government of India for further action, including implementation, internships, project positions, etc.
With a keen focus on science and technology for the future, the hackathon is expected to serve as a dynamic platform to inspire and engage budding innovators to emerge with deployable solutions to the most challenging, yet interesting problems in modern-day science and technology.
- Problem Statements from Ministries
- State-level Screening
- 100 Ideas for Final Selection
- Top 10 Finalists
- Exciting Prizes
Lead Coordinator: VIBHA
Partner Coordinators: CSIR-IHBT, DAE
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Young Scientists Conclave
Empowering the Youth
The Young Scientists Conclave aims at providing a platform for empowering the youth in the field of science and technology for advancing frontier areas of national and global significance. IISF 2024 envisions the participation of Vigyan Yuva SSB Awardees, Young Scientist Awardees, Young Innovators, scientists, and faculties in the Conclave.
The programs associated with the YSC will allow young researchers under the age of 45, including PhD and post-doctoral candidates, to participate and exhibit their accomplishments, identify emerging trends, and discover new research opportunities, scientific methods, and tools in frontier sciences. This initiative strives to combat climate change, achieve sustainable development, and solve societal and industrial challenges.
A focused session on funding opportunities exclusively for young researchers shall also be featured during the event.
- Registration & Abstract Submission Deadline - November 14th, 2024
- Selection Email only to the Selected participants - Nov 18th 2024
- Confirmation of participation to be received from selected participants - Nov 20th 2024
Lead Coordinator: DST (NIF)
Partner Coordinators: CSIR, VIBHA, DBT, DAE
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Thoughtleaders Round Table
Minister - Secretary - CEO Conclave
The Thought Leaders Round Table will bring the corresponding Central and State Government Ministers, Departmental Secretaries, and CEOs of Industries together to discuss important issues, share insights, and establish collaborations on strategies that impact both public and private sectors. The sessions will discuss how science and technology could be effectively used to address the requirements for India to be developed by 2047.
The event will foster dialogues between policymakers and business leaders to address economic, regulatory, and societal challenges, in an attempt to reach innovative solutions for the economic and social development of the country. The event will also feature a separate round table discussion focusing on “Developed North East with Developed India by 2047”.
The discussions are envisioned to bridge the gaps between government policies and business growth to drive the country’s progress in every walk of life and position India as the Industrial Capital of the World by 2047.
- Policy and Industry Alignment
- Regulatory and Policy Reforms
- Economic Development
- Innovation and Technology
- Addressing National Changes
- Strategic Partnerships
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIIST, CSIR-HQ (IMD)
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DST
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
The Gurukula
Aspiring Educators and Teachers Workshop
The National Science Teachers’ Workshop has been an integral event in all the previous editions of IISF. IISF 2024 shall feature the Aspiring Science Educators and Teachers Workshop - The Gurukula, aiming at the professional development of science teachers and educators. The event is designed for teachers from Class VII to MSc in science disciplines, with 50% participation reserved for teachers and educators from the North East.
The Gurukula is dedicated to enhancing the quality of science education in India. The objective is to equip educators with innovative teaching methodologies, modern tools, and strategies to effectively impart scientific knowledge to students.
The Gurukula will feature the following focused activities aimed at delivering a comprehensive toolkit to become effective and inspiring teachers who can make a significant impact in science classrooms and beyond, thereby creating a new generation of science enthusiasts, aligning with the vision of a progressive and technologically advanced ‘Nav Bharat.'
- Pedagogical Techniques
- Classroom Management
- Professional Development
- Technology Integration
- Assessment and Evaluation
- Teachers Network
Lead Coordinator: CSIR (Jigyasa)
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, Min. of Earth Sciences
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Mission Start-up
Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship
Mission Start-up brings together entrepreneurs, investors, experts, and other stakeholders from the start-up ecosystem. It will foster networking, share knowledge, discuss trends, and explore opportunities for collaboration and investment. The event would also facilitate connections and collaborations between emerging startups and established businesses by providing a conducive environment for startups to pitch their innovative ideas, products, or services to potential business partners, investors, and industry experts.
The event will facilitate networking and discussions, enabling startups to explore B2B opportunities, secure funding, gain valuable insights, and establish strategic alliances. Mission Start-up is envisioned to provide an ideal platform for both start-up entrepreneurs and enthusiasts to venture into an energized and supportive ecosystem, offering valuable opportunities for learning, investment, and collaboration.
- workshops and Mster Classes
- Pitch Sessions
- Networking Sessions
- Fireside Chats and Startup Showcases
- Case Studies and Success Stories
- Mentorship Sessions
- Investor Roundtables
Lead Coordinator: CSIR (Head-TMD, CSIR-HQ, Venture Center-NCL, CCMB)
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, BIRAC
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Reimaging Bharat Exhibition
Transformation through New Age Technologies
Reimaging Bharat is a designed exhibition focused on showcasing the future vision and innovative ideas related to new-age technologies for Viksit Bharat 2047. This New Age Technologies Exhibition will highlight the advancements and innovations across various emerging technologies in globally significant areas including fundamental and applied science, agriculture, healthcare, space, education, strategic sectors, robotics, etc.
The interactive experiences will involve live demos, virtual and augmented realities, blockchain technologies, quantum computing including AI-ML, 5G and beyond, IoT, renewable energy technologies, autonomous systems, brain-computer interfaces, EVs, and more.
Only high end technologies or first of its kind technologies developed by the governmental agencies in India shall be exhibited and direct interactions with top business entities for adoption of these technologies and public engagement are envisaged.
- Technology Showcase
- Product Demonstration
- Interactive Exhibits
- Networking Lounges
- B2B Meetings
- Meet 'n Greet Sessions
- Science Fairs and Talks
- Panel Discussions
Lead Coordinator: CSIR (Head-CPD, CSIR-HQ)
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DoS
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Sagarika - The Tale of Earth sciences
Meteorology, oceanography and Ecology
Sagarika — The Tale of Earth Sciences aims at educating and engaging the public on interconnected fields of meteorology, oceanography, and ecology, and understanding their impact on the Indian ecosystem. Raising public awareness in these areas and their significance in addressing environmental issues via focused discussions on climate change, ocean health, and ecological conservation, as well as facilitating connections between scientists, policymakers, educators, and the general public, are the prime missions of this event. Sagarika will involve the following sub-events:
- Tropical Meteorology
- Coastal Science
- Seismology
- Ocean Tech.
- Weather and Climate
- Marine Ecology
- Early Warning
- Quantum Tech.
Lead Coordinator: Ministry of Earth Sciences
Partner Coordinators: CSIR-NEIST, VIBHA
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Global S&T Alliance
Science Beyond Borders
Science Beyond Borders is a multifaceted initiative aimed at fostering international collaboration and dialogues within the scientific community by promoting cross-border partnerships among scientists, researchers, and institutions to address global challenges, facilitating the exchange of scientific knowledge and best practices in S&T, leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise among researchers around the world, and enhancing global scientific literacy and education through multilateral collaboration and outreach activities. The event will feature the following:
- Public lectures by Nobel laureates
- Sessions involving internationally recognized science leaders
- Round Table discussions with major international science organizations (DAAD, Fulbright, National Science Academies, AvH Foundation, MC Actions, Royal Society, UN agencies, TWAS, etc.)
- Network sessions involving international publishers (Springer, ACS, Wiley, RSC, Elsevier, etc.)
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIIST
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DST, INSA/p>
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Vigyanika
Science Literature Festival
Vigyanika 2024 is planned as a dynamic event to celebrate the intersection of science and literature. The event aims at showcasing the conveyance of scientific concepts and discoveries through literature and engaging diverse stakeholders in science communication. While celebrating science communication, Vigyanika 2024 aims to promote science literacy, foster dialogues about the interpretation of scientific ideas, and inspire creativity in scientific storytelling. Vigyanika 2024 will focus on the advances and contributions of scientists in traditional and contemporary sciences in the march towards Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
The major attractions will include sessions on the art of scientific writing, evolution of scientific thoughts, intersection of science and fiction, science communication in social media, science communication in mother tongue, science drama and arts, and related competitions for the public. The theme for Vigyanika 2024 will be “From Folklore to the Future – An Indian Literary Exploration”.
- The Art of Scientific Writing
- Evolution of Scientific Thoughts
- Intersection of Science and Fiction
- Science Communication in Social Media
- Science Communication in Mother Tongue
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIScPR
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Nuclear Energy for Self-Reliant India
Fusion Forum – The Atomic Assembly
Fusion Forum – The Atomic Assembly aims at informing and engaging the public on the role of nuclear energy in achieving energy independence and self-reliance in India. The event will showcase the current perspectives, future benefits, and pressing challenges in implementing nuclear energy in multifarious fields including:
- Public engagement in scaled-up implementation
- Nuclear power for green hydrogen
- Nuclear medicine and healthcare
- Additive manufacturing
- Nuclear technology for sustainable agriculture
- Business prospects in the nuclear energy sector
The major focus of the event shall be on addressing common myths and misconceptions about nuclear energy through interactive Q&A sessions.
- Public-engaged Scale-up
- Nuclear Power for Hydrogen Energy
- Nuclear Medicine and Health Care
- Additive Manufacturing in Nuclear Sector
- Nuclear Tech. for Agriculture
- Business Prospects
Lead Coordinator: DAE
Partner Coordinators: CSIR, VIBHA
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Face to Face with New Frontiers in S&T
Student - Scientist Interaction Program
This event is designed to inspire and empower the youth of India to take the lead in the fields of science and technology, fostering a new generation of innovators and leaders. It will provide a unique platform for students and researchers to engage in meaningful dialogues with esteemed personalities who have made significant contributions across various disciplines, including academia, research, and industry. Key areas like renewable energy, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics will also be covered, highlighting their transformative impacts on society.
Additionally, sessions on agro-tech, medicine, health, environmental science, biosciences, nanotechnology, and nuclear physics will showcase the interdisciplinary nature of modern scientific inquiry. The event aims not only to ignite a passion for careers in science and research among students but also to position India as a frontrunner in crafting innovative solutions that address contemporary global issues.
Lead Coordinator: CSIR (Jigyasa)
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DST, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
NSOIM
National Social Organisations and Institutions Meet
NSOIM provides a vital platform for fostering collaboration among a diverse range of stakeholders committed to societal development. This event offers a unique opportunity for social organizations, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to come together and share their insights through presentations, interactive sessions, and live demonstrations that showcase transformative technologies. By bridging the gap between the social and scientific communities, NSOIM encourages a rich exchange of ideas focused on grassroots models that drive livelihood-centric development.
It emphasizes the importance of social diffusion, enabling innovative solutions to reach underserved populations, and promotes the commercialization of scientific advancements to ensure they have a tangible impact on society.
Lead Coordinator: VIBHA
Partner Coordinators: CSIR, DST, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Vision sansad
Science Institutional Leaders Meet
While scattered stages are available for science institutional leaders to meet and exchange ideas, a concerted platform for the leaders of every scientific institution in India is rarely encountered. Vision Sansad aims at bringing together key leaders from every possible science institution in the country for discussing strategies for advancing scientific research, collaboration, and policy development, including effective solutions for any bottleneck faced in science education, R&D, innovations, and implementations. The mission of Vision Sansad revolves around enhancing institutional partnerships for addressing common challenges and shaping the future of science in an inclusive manner. Directors, Vice Chancellors, Presidents and Senior Leaders of the following institutions shall be invited for the high-profile event:
- Science and Technology Departments
- Science and Engineering Academies in India
- Agencies including UGC, AICTE, etc.
- Premier R&D Institutions
- IITs, IISERs and NITs
- Central, State and Deemed-to-be Universities
- Selected Industries and Private Institutions
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIIST
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DST, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Science Safari
Science through Games and Adventures
Unlike previous years, IISF 2024 plans to merge Science through Games and Adventures with Students S&T Village - The New Nalanda. This part of the event provides a platform to display both traditional and contemporary science-based toys, and will host sessions and workshops for students and teachers on how to use these tools in the classroom. The idea of incorporating science into games, toys, and adventures can be an engaging way to make learning and teaching more interactive and enjoyable.
This event is expected to result in promoting practical applications in STEM, enhancing problem-solving skills, and motivating and interesting students by making learning fun and rewarding. They also serve as gateways to impart fundamental scientific principles to kids and are excellent tools to stimulate curiosity and critical thinking. By leveraging games and adventures, teachers will be able to create compelling educational tools that make learning STEM an exciting and interactive experience.
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-IMMT
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Media Conclave
Science & Technology Media and Communicators Conclave
The Science & Technology Media and Communicators Conclave offers a unique platform for media personnel, journalists, and communicators to stay updated on the latest scientific developments and share their stories with the public. This conclave serves as a forum for discussing the challenges and opportunities of science journalism.
By bringing together experts from science and media, the conclave aims to explore effective communication strategies, enhance collaboration, and foster better public understanding of science. Key focus areas include addressing miscommunication and misinformation, improving science news accuracy and quality, and bridging the science-media gap.
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIScPR
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, CSIR-CDRI, CSIR-CECRI, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Taste of the Hills
NORTH EAST FOOD STREET
Cuisine from the North East is a delightful blend of flavors and ingredients that are distinctly different from other regional cuisines in India. The North-Eastern cuisine often features a mix of indigenous ingredients and traditional cooking methods, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of North East India.
The Food Street, open throughout IISF 2024, will immerse the participants in the North-East culinary heritage and allow them to enjoy a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions, accompanied by soft and traditional music.
- Assam Delights
- Tripura Treats
- Sikkim Savory
- Arunachal Aroma
- Manipur Munchies
- Naga Nibbles
- Mizo Bites
- Meghalayan Morsels
Lead Coordinator: NECTAR
Partner Coordinators: CSIR-NEIST, VIBHA, DBT
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
Saga of Science Chronicles
IISF 2024 will feature an LED light show during every evening of the festival. The show will be themed around the history of Indian science and is envisioned to provide a visually captivating and educational experience, blending modern technology with the rich legacy of scientific achievements from India.
The light show will start with a dynamic introduction featuring a timeline that morphs through various eras of Indian history – from Aryabhatta to Chandyayan-3, with a selected theme screened during 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm each day of IISF 2024.
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NIIST
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DoS, DAE
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST
North-East Symphony
The cultural fest, staged during the whole duration of IISF 2024, will portray North-East India’s vibrant colors embedded with their rich and diverse heritage. The North-East Symphony will showcase the diverse traditions, customs, and arts of the eight states in North East India and will offer a rich experience of music, dance, crafts, and traditional practices, highlighting the region's unique culture and lifestyle.
The fest further offers a platform for local artists and performers to showcase their talents and for visitors to experience the vibrant traditions of North East India.
Lead Coordinator: CSIR-NEIST
Partner Coordinators: VIBHA, DAE, IIT-G
Convener: CSIR-NIIST
Secretariat: CSIR-NIIST