Patna: The Regional Science Congress 2025, organised by the Patna Region, began with fervour on Wednesday at the Senate Hall of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna. The four-day event, running from October 8 to 12, opened with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolising the spirit of knowledge, innovation, and scientific inquiry.
The inauguration was graced by Prof A.K. Thakur, Dean of Administration and Registrar at IIT Patna, as the Chief Guest. R.K. Choudhary, Assistant Commissioner of the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (Patna Region), and Mukhtar Singh, Principal of JNV Vikram, attended as Special Guests.
Also present were Dr N.K. Tomar (Associate Dean, Resources, IIT Patna), Prof Naveen Nishchal, Dr Mahendra Ram, and several Navodaya Vidyalaya principals from Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, along with teachers, faculty members, and students.
This year’s congress brings together 100 meritorious students—76 boys and 24 girls—selected from 83 Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas across the three states. The central theme for 2025, “Application of Emerging Technologies in Sustainable Development”, underscores the role of science and innovation in addressing global challenges.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Thakur urged young participants to think beyond conventional fields like science and engineering and embrace ideation, incubation, and entrepreneurship. “Knowledge, conduct, and character are the true hallmarks of youth leadership. India’s self-reliance in semiconductor technology is a testament to what innovation can achieve,” he said.
He added that the youth must be equipped not only with technical skills but also with creativity and responsibility to shape a self-reliant, forward-looking India.
In a special session, Prof Naveen Kumar Nishchal delivered an inspiring lecture titled “Inspiration Towards the Study of Science”, encouraging students to remain curious and explore the unknown. Later, participants visited IIT Patna’s Physics and Chemistry laboratories and the Incubation Centre, engaging in hands-on experiments and interactive demonstrations.
Officials said the congress aims to cultivate scientific temperament, promote sustainability-driven innovation, and provide a platform for young minds to exchange ideas.
The event will continue over the next three days with exhibitions, model presentations, panel discussions, and workshops designed to nurture India’s next generation of scientists and innovators.
