The 10th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) was inaugurated at IIT Guwahati, marking a significant milestone as the first-ever IISF hosted in the Northeast. With the theme “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub,” the festival highlights the critical role of science and technology in fostering industrial growth and positioning India as a global manufacturing leader.
Organized by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in collaboration with Vijnana Bharati, IISF 2024 aims to celebrate India’s scientific achievements while fostering innovation and collaboration. The inauguration saw the launch of the India Science, Technology & Innovation (ISTI) Portal, a centralized platform designed to empower students, researchers, and entrepreneurs with resources such as scholarships, fellowships, and funding opportunities. The event was graced by Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam; Dr Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister for Science and Technology; and Conrad Kongkal Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya.
At the inaugural ceremony, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the transformative impact of hosting IISF in the Northeast: “IISF 2024 is a celebration of collective efforts in scientific innovation and collaboration. It showcases India’s achievements like the Chandrayaan missions and serves as a platform for inspiring youth and fostering innovation.” His remarks were supported by Dr Jitendra Singh, who emphasized the Northeast’s emergence as a shining example of growth fueled by scientific and economic progress.
Driving India’s Manufacturing Potential
A key focus of IISF 2024 is its commitment to transforming India into a global manufacturing hub. The festival reflects the importance of leveraging science and technology for sustainable industrial growth, with panel discussions and exhibitions centred on Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI, robotics, IoT, and renewable energy. The Round Table on India as the Global Manufacturing Hub through S&T brought together policymakers and industry leaders to explore strategies for strengthening local supply chains, enhancing skill development, and driving technological adoption.
India’s manufacturing sector is essential to the nation’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047. It contributes to GDP growth, creates jobs, and fosters global competitiveness. Discussions at IISF emphasized building resilient ecosystems by investing in Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) and promoting cultural shifts that value skilled labour.
Empowering Youth and Society
With over 8,000 delegates and 10,000 students expected to attend, IISF 2024 is a beacon for youth engagement. Initiatives such as the Students Science & Technology Village and Science Safari offer hands-on experiences and STEM challenges to ignite curiosity and critical thinking among school students. Additionally, programs like Nari Shakti, which celebrates women in STEM, highlight the importance of diversity and inclusivity in shaping India’s scientific future.
The Science Expo is another key attraction, featuring exhibitions such as the Chandrayaan – Museum of the Moon, a seven-meter replica of the moon created by British artist Dr Luke Jerram, and the Reimagining Bharat Exhibition, which showcases advancements in AI, robotics, and quantum computing. These exhibits provide visitors with interactive experiences and a glimpse into India’s technological roadmap.
Hosting IISF 2024 in Guwahati reflects the government’s dedication to inclusive development, particularly in historically underrepresented regions like the Northeast. With 30% of registrations reserved for participants from the area, the festival ensures that local talent is recognized and empowered to contribute to the nation’s scientific and industrial progress.
Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized the Northeast’s role in India’s growth story: “The region has become a shining example of growth, embodying both economic progress and scientific innovation. Empowering youth and fostering innovation are key drivers as we approach India@2047.”
IISF 2024: A Vision for a Sustainable Future
IISF 2024 is more than a celebration of science; it shows India’s commitment to leveraging innovation for societal and economic transformation. The festival creates a platform for addressing global challenges like climate change, food security, and sustainable development by fostering collaboration among scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and students.
As IISF continues its four-day journey, it promises to inspire future generations, drive advancements in manufacturing, and position India as a global leader in science and technology. With its focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, IISF 2024 is a pivotal step toward realizing India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant, S&T-driven global manufacturing powerhouse.
