The Meteorological Centre in Lucknow set the stage on Tuesday for a major national scientific gathering, hosting a curtain raiser event for the upcoming India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025. The festival itself is scheduled to take place from December 6 to 9 in Panchkula, Haryana.
Focus on a Self-Reliant India
This year's edition of the festival will revolve around the powerful theme, 'Science for Prosperity: Towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat'. This theme underscores the pivotal role that scientific advancement and technological innovation are expected to play in driving the nation towards self-reliance and overall prosperity.
The event in Lucknow was chaired by Manish R Ranalakar, the director of the Meteorological Centre. In his address, Ranalakar stressed the transformative potential of science across diverse sectors and its capacity to mould India into a developed nation. Senior scientist Atul Kumar Singh provided attendees with a comprehensive background of the IISF, outlining its core objectives and structural framework. He encouraged all participants to actively engage with and leverage this significant national platform.
Wide Participation and Technological Showcase
The programme witnessed enthusiastic involvement from a diverse audience of more than 200 participants. This group included the dean of the GCRG Memorial Trust Group of Institutions, along with students and faculty members from GCRG College and the Aeronautical Institute. Members of the general public and representatives from both print and electronic media were also in attendance.
The event was smoothly coordinated under the guidance of senior scientist Mohammad Danish, with support from the technical team and seasoned meteorologists. A major attraction was the exhibition of advanced technologies used in modern weather forecasting. Experts from the Meteorological Centre demonstrated state-of-the-art forecasting tools currently deployed for monitoring Uttar Pradesh's weather, engaging with curious visitors who showed great interest and appreciation for the displays.
Building Momentum for a National Event
The curtain raiser successfully served its purpose of generating awareness and excitement for the main IISF 2025 event later this year. By highlighting the festival's focus on national development through science and offering a hands-on glimpse of meteorological innovation, the Lucknow event effectively bridged the gap between complex scientific concepts and public understanding. It paved the way for what promises to be a significant congregation of scientific minds in Panchkula this December, all aligned with the vision of a self-reliant India.
