In anticipation of the forthcoming India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023, the CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, in collaboration with Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), hosted a curtain-raiser programme on 19 December 2023. The event aimed to set the stage for the grand celebration of Science and Technology.
The IISF is celebrated every year to promote Science and Technology and demonstrate how science could lead India towards a developed nation. The primary objective is to engage the public with science, fostering an appreciation for its wonders, and highlighting how Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) can offer solutions to enhance our quality of life.
Dr CS Gopinath, Deputy Director, CSIR-NCL, addressed the audience, providing insights into the history and contributions of CSIR-NCL to the nation over the past seven decades. He highlighted the laboratory's significant role in various fields such as basic chemicals, dyestuff, pharmaceuticals, catalysis, tissue culture, tech transfers, patenting, innovation, entrepreneurship, and mission mode projects. Dr Gopinath also highlighted the seven main research themes of CSIR-NCL and discussed critical topics like climate change, pollution, affordable healthcare, and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Dr Manasi Malgaonkar, Coordinator of VIBHA, Pune, presented a brief history of the IISF and its objectives. As a knowledge partner, VIBHA has been instrumental in the success of the festival. Dr Malgaonkar outlined the major events planned for IISF 2023, including the Students Science Village, Face to Face with New Frontiers of Science & Technology, Science through Games & Toys, Students Innovation Festival — Space Hackathon, and Vigyanika — Science Literature Festival.
An interactive session titled “Role of Computers on the Selective Use of Bunsen Burner” was conducted by Dr Sailaja Krishnamurty, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-NCL. She discussed the transformative journey of mankind over the last 300 years. She emphasised the role of computers in simulations, foreseeing a future where they replace traditional tools like the Bunsen burner. Dr Krishnamurty shared examples of ongoing research in computational chemistry conducted with her students.
Dr Wafia Masih, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-NCL, coordinated the outreach programme, extending a warm welcome to participants, including school students and teachers from Pune and its surrounding areas. The event proved fruitful, attracting over 230 students in standards 8-12 and 14 teachers from nine schools.
The curtain-raiser programme successfully ignited the spirit of scientific temper, paving the way for the much-anticipated IISF 2023, where science and innovation will take centre stage.
