Celebrating India’s Science-Led Governance
During the meeting, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that India has undergone a paradigm shift in the way science, technology, and research are integrated into governance. He stated, “Science today leads policy. Gone are the days when science waited for policy; today, policies are oriented by science and technology.”
He highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has decisively moved towards science-led governance, with innovation forming the backbone of national progress and public policy.
The upcoming festival will focus on India’s journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat through advancements in deep technology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum research, and clean energy. It will also serve as a platform for interaction between scientists, policymakers, startups, and students.
“The government has become a facilitator rather than a controller,” Dr. Singh remarked, highlighting how public-private partnerships and startups are driving transformative changes across the science and technology ecosystem.
Key Dignitaries and Departments Involved
The review meeting was attended by top science officials including 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 and Technology (DST); Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology; and Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR and Director General of CSIR.
Representatives from Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) also participated, reaffirming the collaborative approach towards strengthening India’s scientific ecosystem.
Bringing Science Closer to Society
The IISF 2025 aims to promote public participation in science and make complex research accessible to citizens. The event will feature exhibitions, seminars, innovation showcases, and outreach activities, demonstrating how technology is improving lives across India.
By hosting IISF 2025 in Chandigarh, India seeks to reinforce its position as a global science hub while empowering youth to pursue innovation and entrepreneurship.