IISF 2025: Young Scientist Conclave Inspires Hundreds of Participants Towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat


Panchkula, December 7, 2025: The Young Scientist Conclave held at India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 successfully galvanized over 350 young scientists, focusing on their pivotal role in building an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India). The inaugural session was distinguished by the presence of eminent scientific leaders. Dr. S. Somanath, Former Chairman ISRO, urged the budding scientists to take on challenges boldly, think creatively, and work on novel ideas that can transform the future and delivered a highly motivational address, sharing ISRO's inspiring journey of indigenous success and emphasizing that scientific independence is the key to national prosperity. 



Dr. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman NIRF & NAAC, emphasized quality research, academic integrity, and the importance of nurturing innovative thinking in India’s scientific ecosystem. The session was also graced by Shri Ajit Sasane, Director CSIR–NBRI, Dr. Arvind Ranade, Director National Innovation Foundation, and Dr. Anant Ramakrishnan, Director CSIR–NIIST, Dr. Bhola Ram Gurjar, Director, NITTTR, Chandigarh  and Shri Vivekanand Pai, General Secretary, Vigyan Bharti who encouraged students to build strong scientific careers and contribute to national progress. The session successfully fueled the participants' drive to develop world-class, indigenous technological solutions for India's future. 


Following the inaugural impetus, a highly interactive compelling Panel Discussion moderated by Dr. Rajnish Chaturvedi, Chief Scientist CSIR–IITR and featured by experts from distinct specialization areas including Dr. S.K. Barik, Dr. Surendra Mehta, Dr. Akhilesh Pathak, Dr. Arvind Parikh, Dr. Ajit Shany, Dr. Mukta Batale, Dr. Sheelendra Pratap Singh, Dr. Ashwini Parekh, Prof. Sathans and Dr. M.G. Thakkar who engaged in intensive Q&A, offering multi-disciplinary insights into current challenges and future trends discussing discussed key themes such as emerging opportunities, challenges for young scientists, innovation and start-ups, the role of AI and new technologies, research ethics, and career development. 


Furthermore, the participants' research was rigorously assessed during the Oral and Poster Presentation sessions, where their respective themes were evaluated by expert juries based on originality, methodology, and potential for national impact. The combined sessions created a vibrant environment of learning, mentorship, and inspiration, reinforcing the vital role of young scientists in shaping India’s scientific future.


The key takeaway is the reinforced commitment among the young scientific community to translate their cutting-edge research into tangible, self-sufficient solutions, positioning the Conclave as a vital platform for fostering technological leadership in India.

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