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 UPSC 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