Will Chandigarh Host the India International Science Festival Starting Dec 6?
                                    
                                    
                                    
                                Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IISF 2023 will be held in Chandigarh from December 6 to 9.
 - The festival aims to promote science-led governance.
 - Focus areas include Deep Tech, AI, and Biotechnology.
 - It reflects the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
 - Government is facilitating innovation through partnerships.
 
New Delhi, Nov 2 (NationPress) The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Jitendra Singh, convened a high-level review meeting on Sunday to assess the preparations underway for the India International Science Festival (IISF). This significant event is scheduled to take place in Chandigarh from December 6 to 9.
During the meeting, building on discussions from the prior review held on September 29, 2025, Jitendra Singh articulated that this year’s IISF aims to establish a compelling national narrative. It will highlight how India’s methodology in science, research, and innovation has been fundamentally reshaped under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Today, science drives policy. The era of science waiting for policy is over; now, policies are crafted around science and technology,” emphasized Jitendra Singh, reflecting India’s significant transition towards science-led governance.
The Minister underscored that the government has transitioned into a facilitator role rather than a controlling one, fostering a supportive ecosystem where the private sector, startups, and young innovators are at the forefront of advancements in Deep Tech, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Quantum technologies, and Clean Energy.
Jitendra Singh stated that the event will honor India’s remarkable scientific and technological strides across various sectors, reflecting the essence of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He pointed out that this year’s IISF will not only showcase India’s accomplishments in crucial areas that have become the foundation of national self-reliance but will also serve as a platform for scientific exchange.
Key figures present included Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India; Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology (DST); Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences; and others.