Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, inaugurated the 11th India International Science Festival (IISF 2025) in Panchkula today, marking the beginning of one of India’s largest public science outreach events. The four-day festival, being held from 6–9 December, aims to showcase India’s scientific strengths, celebrate innovation and deepen public engagement with science. The inaugural ceremony began with Saraswati Vandana and Lamp Lighting, followed by the IISF introductory film. Scientists, students, innovators and science communicators from across the country participated in the opening session.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Jitendra Singh described IISF as a national science movement aimed at taking science beyond laboratories and into the public domain. He articulated the essence of IISF through the three “C’s” — Celebration, Communication and Career, noting that the festival celebrates India’s scientific journey, communicates science to wider audiences, and provides young participants exposure to emerging opportunities in research, innovation, startups and industry.
The Minister emphasised that science and technology form the foundation of India’s vision for Viksit Bharat@2047, and highlighted major achievements of the past decade, including Chandrayaan-3, indigenous vaccine development, biotechnology advancements, improved weather forecasting, digital governance systems, and strengthened polar research capabilities.
Dr. Singh inaugurated the Science–Technology–Defence–Space Exhibition and the immersive Science on a Sphere installation. He also interacted live with scientists at Bharati Research Station, Antarctica, reviewing India’s expanding polar research initiatives.
Welcoming the gathering, Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, highlighted IISF’s objective of strengthening scientific temper, encouraging sustainability and fostering inclusive scientific growth. Senior dignitaries including Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, President, VIBHA, Dr. Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Dr. V. K. Saraswat and Dr. V. K. Paul, Members, NITI Aayog, commended India’s rapid advancements in science and technology and the festival’s role in broadening science communication and outreach.
IISF 2025 hosts an array of thematic events and interactive sessions
Day 1 of IISF saw enthusiastic participation across multiple thematic tracks. Students took part in Blue Economy sessions, a Hackathon, and the Science Safari – Science through Games and Adventures, along with hands-on science learning activities and communication programmes.
Indian Astronaut Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla delivered an inspirational talk, followed by an interactive session with students.
A special Fireside Chat between Dr. Jitendra Singh and Ms. Shradha Sharma, Founder & CEO of YourStory Media, explored India’s innovation ecosystem and the opportunities emerging for young entrepreneurs.
The Activity Guidebook for the National Children’s Science Congress was released, and winners of the One Innovation Challenge 3.0 were announced.
ਥੇਜ਼ Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) showcased its advancements in indigenous scientific instrumentation, attracting strong participation from students, educators and industry partners.
IISF 2025 is being jointly organised by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Department of Space, and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), in collaboration with the Government of Haryana and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA).
This collaborative effort reflects India’s commitment to strengthening scientific temper, supporting innovation-driven growth and enhancing public participation in science.

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