11th India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 Begins in Panchkula

The 11th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) has kicked off in Panchkula, Haryana, from 6th to 9th December 2025, celebrating the country’s progress in science, innovation, and technology. Since its inception in 2015, IISF has evolved into one of the nation’s largest science outreach events, aiming to integrate scientific thinking into public life and empower youth through scientific knowledge.

Theme and Vision of IISF 2025

The theme for IISF 2025 is “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, which translates to Science for Prosperity and Self-Reliant India. This reflects the government’s vision to position science at the heart of economic growth, social welfare, and national development.

The festival aims to promote,

• Science and innovation as drivers of self-reliance.
• Integration of India’s traditional knowledge systems with modern research.
• Scientific temper and curiosity among the masses.

Key Focus Areas

The festival covers five broad domains,

• Ecology and Himalayan Science: Highlighting environment conservation and sustainable development in North-West India.
• Science for Society and Education: Promoting community engagement and STEM education.
• Self-Reliance through S&T: Showcasing innovations that empower local industries and startups.
• Biotechnology and Bio-economy: Encouraging breakthroughs in life sciences and sustainable resources.
• Traditional Knowledge Meets Modern Science: Merging heritage knowledge with cutting-edge research.

Over 150 technical sessions are scheduled across multiple disciplines, including,

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
• Quantum Technology and Space Science
• Gene Editing and Climate Science
• Advanced Materials and Agri-Tech

Participation and Collaboration

The event expects more than 40,000 participants, including,

• Scientists and researchers
• Startups and industry leaders
• School and college students
• Women scientists and educators
• Policy makers and community innovators

This wide-ranging participation promotes collaboration across sectors and disciplines, fostering innovation and knowledge sharing.

Organisers and Institutional Support

IISF 2025 is being led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences and coordinated by IITM Pune, with support from,

• Department of Science and Technology (DST)
• Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
• Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
• Department of Space
• Department of Atomic Energy

The outreach partner for the festival is Vijnana Bharati, a national movement dedicated to promoting science in Indian society.

Significance of IISF 2025

• Strengthens India’s science-based development model.
• Encourages young innovators and creates awareness among students about the future of technology.
• Bridges scientific institutions and society, increasing accessibility of scientific knowledge.
• Acts as a platform to showcase India’s progress in frontier technologies, including AI, biotech, and quantum research.
• Supports the National Education Policy (NEP) goal of integrating scientific thinking in classrooms.

Key Takeaways

• Event: 11th India International Science Festival (IISF)
• Dates: 6 to 9 December 2025
• Venue: Panchkula, Haryana
• Theme: Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat
• Participants: 40,000+ expected
• Sessions: 150+ across various themes
• Focus: Scientific innovation, education, biotech, climate, traditional knowledge
• Objective: Foster a self-reliant, knowledge-driven, and innovation-led India.