UditVani, Jamshedpur: The curtain raiser of the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 was organised at CSIR–National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR–NML) at Burmamines on November 27.
The event set the stage for the 11th IISF, scheduled in Panchkula, Haryana, from December 6 to 9, with the national theme “Vigyan Se Samruddhi – For Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
The programme opened with the screening of CSIR–NML’s 75-year Platinum Jubilee documentary, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. CSIR–NML Director Dr. Sandip Ghosh Chowdhury welcomed participants and outlined the institute’s contributions to metallurgical innovation, sustainability, and industry-oriented research aligned with national goals.
Chief Guest Professor Indranil Manna, Vice Chancellor of BIT Mesra and former Director of IIT Kanpur, delivered an insightful lecture on “The World of Materials: Impact on Development and Growth.” He emphasised the crucial role of materials science in nation-building, explained the interplay between structure and material properties, and urged students to contribute to “Engineering for Viksit Bharat @2047.”
Students and faculty from Al Kabir Polytechnic, Srinath University, and Arka Jain University actively took part in the event. They also toured the CSIR–NML Platinum Jubilee Expo, which showcased the laboratory’s seven-decade legacy through interactive models, scientific exhibits, and demonstrations of advanced research tools.
The programme concluded with the felicitation of Professor Manna by Dr. Chowdhury, followed by a vote of thanks from Dr. S. K. Pal, Head (RPBD), and the National Anthem.
