The India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 will be held from November 30 to December 3, 2024, at IIT Guwahati. The event aims to inspire and showcase the role of science and technology in India’s development, in line with initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. The theme, “Transforming India into a Science and Technology Driven Global Manufacturing Hub,” reflects the nation’s vision for a self-reliant, technologically empowered future.
As a precursor to IISF 2024, CSIR-Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, hosted a Curtain Raiser Event on November 19, 2024. The event featured an interactive program between scientists and students, promoting curiosity and engagement with scientific developments. Around 100 students and faculty from Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, COER Roorkee, and Quantum University, Roorkee, participated enthusiastically.
Visiting students were introduced to the Ctesiphon Exhibition Gallery, which showcased the cutting-edge research and innovations at CSIR-CBRI. Notable projects like the construction of the Ram Mandir and the demolition of the Supertech Twin Towers captured the students’ interest, sparking curiosity about the technologies and innovations behind them
The event commenced with an inspiring inaugural address by the Director of CSIR-CBRI. He delved into the theme of IISF 2024, emphasizing the critical need to harmonize modern infrastructure development with the natural environment. He stressed the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities for citizens across all regions to achieve their full potential through the power of science and technology. The Director also underlined the shared responsibility of transforming India into a developed nation (Viksit Bharat), motivating students to dedicate themselves to this national aspiration. His speech aligned seamlessly with India’s vision of emerging as a global leader in manufacturing, innovation, and sustainable progress.
The event fostered a vibrant and ongoing interaction between students and scientists, offering students the opportunity to ask questions, gain insights, and engage directly with experts. The Director encouraged students & staff members to cultivate a scientific mindset and emphasized the critical role of innovation and research in driving progress and building a self-reliant nation.
The program featured an insightful introduction to IISF 2024 by Dr. Harpal Singh, Chief Scientist, who detailed the festival’s objectives and significance in advancing India’s scientific aspirations. The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. D. P. Kanungo, Chief Scientist, who expressed sincere appreciation to all participants, organizers, and faculty members for their contributions. The seamless coordination of the event was expertly handled by Sh. Nadeem Ahmad, Chief Scientist, ensuring its smooth execution and success.
Two insightful lectures were key highlights of the event. The first, by Er. Humira Athar, titled “Turning Pollution into Possibilities: How Carbon Capture Works,” explored innovative carbon capture technologies. She explained how capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial activities can mitigate pollution while creating sustainable development opportunities, highlighting the power of science and technology in addressing environmental challenges.
The second lecture, by Er. Kanti Lal Solanki, explored “The Role of IoT in Transforming Industries.” He discussed how IoT is revolutionizing industrial processes by enabling smarter, more efficient systems, with real-world applications in manufacturing, logistics, and energy management to optimize operations and drive innovation.
Both lectures captivated the audience, sparking curiosity and encouraging active participation. Students and faculty engaged in meaningful discussions, exploring how emerging technologies can address societal challenges and contribute to national growth.
The program was enriched by the active participation of Dr. Chandan S. Meena, Dr. Hemlata, Dr. Tabish Alam, Dr. Naveen Nishant, Er. K. Solanki, and Dr. Suman, whose expertise and interactions with students greatly enhanced the event’s impact.
At the event’s conclusion, students and faculty expressed gratitude to CSIR-CBRI for providing an inspiring learning experience. The showcase of innovations in building science and sustainable technology motivated attendees to critically consider their role in shaping a progressive, sustainable future.
