IRIS reaches out to young scientists

KOLKATA, INDIA: India’s biggest science fair, IRIS (Initiative for Research & Innovation in Science), would be held at Kolkata from December 4-6.

The event is being jointly organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Intel.

This is for the third consecutive year that the science fair is being organized, said a pres release. The event aims to promote and nurture science and scientific research amongst young Indian innovators by recognizing and rewarding outstanding projects and providing a platform for the young innovators to represent India at International fairs like the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), and International Exhibition for Young Inventors (IEYI).

IRIS received over 1000 project entries from school students across the country. The students participated by sending synopsis entries across 10 categories of chemistry, earth and space science, physics, mathematics, zoology, botany, biochemistry, environmental science, computer science and engineering.

The Scientific Review Committee, comprising eminent Indian scientists have short-listed the 100 best ideas that would now compete for the national awards at the competition, the release added.

Praveen Vishakantaiah, president, Intel India said, “Innovation needs nurturing, and Intel is committed to sustaining an environment for young minds to excel in. IRIS has been designed to infuse and help build a scientific temperament and nurture innovation with young Indians.”

“As IRIS gains momentum year after year, we will continue to encourage students in the country to think creatively and provide them an opportunity to showcase their scientific abilities to the world. In the long run, this will help build world class innovators in the country,” he added.

Anuj Sinha, advisor and head (NCSTC), Department of Science and Technology said, “Application while learning is key to stimulate young minds and arouse curiosity about scientific phenomenon. With this partnership, we are harnessing the youth to divert more towards project-based learning, thus showcasing their innovative thinking and creative ability.”

He added that the scientific review committee has got a real task ahead to select the best projects from the increased quality entries this year.