Overview
The Ministry of Earth Sciences will host the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 in Chandigarh from December 6th to 9th, 2025. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Science & Technology, reviewed the preparations, emphasizing the festival's role in showcasing India's transformation into a science-led and innovation-driven nation. The event will celebrate India’s journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat through advancements in science, innovation, and technology.
Key Developments
- IISF 2025 Dates: December 6th - 9th, 2025
- Location: Chandigarh
- Focus: Showcasing India's transformation into a science-led, innovation-driven nation.
- Theme: Celebrating India’s journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat through science, innovation, and technology.
- Ministerial Review: Dr. Jitendra Singh chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparations.
Science-Led Governance
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized India’s decisive shift toward science-led governance under PM Narendra Modi. He stated that policies are now oriented by science and technology, marking a significant change from the past when science awaited policy directives.
Government as Facilitator
The government has transitioned into a facilitator, creating an enabling ecosystem where the private sector, startups, and young innovators are driving advancements in Deep Tech, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Quantum technologies, and Clean Energy innovations.
Celebration of Achievements
IISF 2025 will celebrate India’s scientific and technological advancements across ministries, academia, industry, and startups, reflecting the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The event will showcase India’s achievements across key sectors that have become pillars of national self-reliance.
Key Participants
- Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood: Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India
- Dr. M. Ravichandran: Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences
- Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty: Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy
- Prof. Abhay Karandikar: Secretary, Department of Science & Technology (DST)
- Dr. Rajesh Gokhale: Secretary, Department of Biotechnology
- Dr. N. Kalaiselvi: Secretary, Department of Scientific & Industrial Research and Director General, CSIR
Exam Relevance
This news is relevant for GS3 (Science and Technology), focusing on India's advancements in science and technology and government policies promoting innovation. It also touches upon GS2 (Government Policies and Interventions), highlighting the shift towards science-led governance and the promotion of self-reliance through technological advancements.
Important Facts for UPSC
- Event: India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025
- Dates: December 6th - 9th, 2025
- Location: Chandigarh
- Focus Areas: Deep Tech, AI, Biotechnology, Quantum technologies, Clean Energy
- Key Initiative: Aatmanirbhar Bharat through science and technology