Bhubaneswar: The State Youth Science Festival, organized by the Department of Science and Technology, was held today at Kalinga Stadium with an aim to ignite interest in science among young minds. The event featured 58 innovative projects—39 from the senior category and 19 from the junior category—and witnessed the participation of nearly 100 students from 20 districts across the state.
The festival was graced by Minister of Science & Technology Krishna Chandra Patra as the Chief Guest and Principal Secretary of the Department, Chithra Arumugam, as the Chief Speaker. The event highlighted the remarkable creativity and scientific temper of young students who presented a range of projects spanning diverse scientific disciplines.
In the senior category, Subhasis Prusty of The Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar secured the top position, followed by Rakshit Kumar Mohanty of OUTR in second place and Siddhi Mohan Pattnaik of Utkal University in third. In the junior category, Ayusman Choudhary from Ramanguda Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Rayagada claimed the first position, Jyoti Ranjan Barik from Ranibhol Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Mayurbhanj secured second, and Shreyan Dash from Pokhariput DAV Public School finished third.
Certificates and cash prizes were awarded to the winners in recognition of their outstanding efforts. Additionally, all participants received certificates to honor their involvement, and eminent members of the jury were felicitated for their contributions.
Speaking at the event, Krishna Chandra Patra emphasized the critical role of science and innovation in shaping the future of the state and nation. He encouraged students to pursue their curiosity and actively contribute to the scientific community.
The festival concluded with Additional Secretary Sibani Mohanty delivering the welcome address and Prof. Bibhuti Bhushan Mishra, President of the Odisha Bigyan Academy, proposing the vote of thanks. The event underscored the state’s commitment to nurturing young scientific talent and fostering a culture of innovation.