Highlights from the 11th India International Science Festival

Overview of the 11th India International Science Festival (IISF 2025)

The 11th India International Science Festival (IISF 2025) took place from December 6 to 9, 2025, at Dusshera Ground in Panchkula, Haryana. This significant event was organized by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and coordinated by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune. The festival was inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh.

Key Details of IISF 2025

• Location: Panchkula, Haryana
• Organizer: MoES, IITM Pune
• Inaugurated by: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh
• Theme: “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat”
• Notable Showcase: Matsya 6000, developed by NIOT

About IISF

The IISF is among the world's largest science outreach events aimed at popularizing science among students and the public. It showcases India's achievements in science and technology while fostering collaboration among scientists, innovators, industry stakeholders, and global partners.

Focus and Objectives

The theme of IISF 2025, “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” emphasizes leveraging science for self-reliance, national development, and economic growth. Partner ministries include:

• Department of Science and Technology (DST)
• Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
• Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
• Department of Space
• Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)
• Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA)

Participation and Activities

Over 40,000 participants attended IISF 2025, including researchers, students, and international delegates. The festival featured various activities such as Business to Business (B2B) meetings, competitions, cultural programs, and specialized tracks for students and early-career researchers.

Scientific and Technical Sessions

The event hosted more than 150 technical sessions focusing on critical areas such as:

• Quantum Technologies
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Climate Science and Sustainability
• Space Technologies
• Biotechnology and Bioeconomy

Matsya 6000: A Milestone in Deep-Sea Research

One of the highlights of IISF 2025 was the showcase of Matsya 6000, India's first human-occupied deep-sea submersible, developed under the Samudrayaan Mission. This submersible can operate at depths of 6,000 meters and is designed to carry three crew members.

Technical Specifications of Matsya 6000

Matsya 6000 is built with a 2.1m titanium-alloy pressure sphere, rated for 600-bar pressure. It features:

• 96-hour emergency oxygen supply
• Carbon dioxide scrubbers
• Full environmental control
• 360-degree thrusters and robotic arms

Significance of Matsya 6000

This innovative submersible enhances deep-sea research capabilities and contributes to India's Blue Economy by enabling exploration of marine biodiversity and valuable seabed resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the India International Science Festival (IISF)?
Answer: The IISF is a major science outreach event in India, aimed at promoting scientific understanding and collaboration among various stakeholders in the field of science and technology.

Q2. What was the theme of IISF 2025?
Answer: The theme of IISF 2025 was “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” focusing on using science for self-reliance and national development.

Q3. Who inaugurated IISF 2025?
Answer: IISF 2025 was inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, representing the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Q4. What is Matsya 6000?
Answer: Matsya 6000 is India's first human-occupied deep-sea submersible, developed for deep-sea exploration under the Samudrayaan Mission.

Q5. How many participants attended IISF 2025?
Answer: IISF 2025 saw participation from over 40,000 individuals, including researchers, students, and international delegates.