Faridabad: The second day of the Student Innovation Festival – Space Hackathon at IISF 2023 was illuminated by an insightful address from Shri S Somanath, Secretary, Department of Space, and Chairman, ISRO. Engaging with students from various corners of the country, Shri Somanath shared his valuable perspectives, motivating participants to explore the limitless potential inherent in space technologies.
In his address, Shri S Somanath underscored the critical role of space technologies across diverse sectors, spanning agriculture, remote sensing, navigation, transport, water resources, infrastructure, and more. He drew attention to the Bhuvan portal and its applications for the common man, emphasizing its role in fostering innovation and societal development.
Actively participating in discussions with the grand finale participants, Shri S Somanath witnessed firsthand the applications developed during the 30-hour hackathon. He emphasized the significance of initiatives like the Space Hackathon for societal progress and nation-building. Expressing optimism about the opportunities stemming from the new ISRO policy implemented in 2023, which actively supports startups in the space sector, Shri S Somanath stated, “In 2023, ISRO opened its doors to startups, transforming into an organization that fosters values, entrepreneurship, and innovation. We are no longer a secret entity; instead, we aim to create meaningful contributions to society.” He extended his best wishes to the participants, hoping that the hackathon serves as a significant learning opportunity for the students.
Apart from addressing the participants, Shri S Somanath engaged with key contributors to the event, including teams from ISRO, NIF, and Vijnana Bharti (VIBHA), acknowledging their instrumental role in the success of the Space Hackathon. The 30-hour hackathon concluded today, with students showcasing exceptional enthusiasm and creativity. The event not only provided a competitive platform but also encouraged collaboration, innovation, and a deeper understanding of the vast possibilities within the field of space technologies.
The Science Media Communication Cell (SMCC) of CSIR-NIScPR diligently coordinated the media publicity and visibility of the Student Innovation Festival – Space Hackathon 2023 across print, electronic, and social media platforms, ensuring widespread coverage and engagement.