New Delhi: Union Minister for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, presided over the monthly joint meeting of various Science Ministries and Departments in New Delhi, where he lauded the success of the Space Hackathon held last month. The hackathon, focusing on Space-related challenges, was part of the India International Science Festival – 2023 (IISF-2023) and aimed to enhance students’ skills and innovation.
The 30-hour hackathon, addressing technical issues related to the Geospatial BHUVAN portal, took place at the DBT THSTI – RCB Campus in Faridabad, Haryana, from January 17th to 20th, 2024. Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed satisfaction at the overwhelming response to the event, noting that over 4,000 teams registered within a month, with 57 teams making it to the grand finale.
The high-level joint meeting included representatives from Science & Technology, Biotechnology, CSIR, Earth Sciences, Department of Space, and Atomic Energy. The Minister was informed that after a rigorous selection process, four winning teams were selected, and their ideas will be supported by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Additionally, 11 runner-up teams were also declared.
Dr. Jitendra Singh commended the scientific departments for the success of IISF-2023, which witnessed participation from nearly 35,000 individuals, including over 11,000 delegates. He highlighted the engagement of seven State S&T Ministers, 27 State officials and Secretaries, and 75 delegates in the four-day Science Fest.
The meeting also recognized the progress in operationalizing the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), with a notification issued on February 5, 2024. Dr. Jitendra Singh suggested initiating a search for the Anusandhan NRF Logo.
Regarding the proposed service conditions for Research Scientists in various government departments and institutions, the meeting discussed the matter and emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach.
The Science Minister was updated on the demonstration of a unified portal designed for all fellowships of various Science Departments. The portal’s security audit is currently underway before its official launch for scholars.
Dr. Jitendra Singh called for the mobilization of the Science Media Communication Center (SMCC) to create awareness about new achievements and discoveries. He directed a workshop for all Nodal Officers of Laboratories and Departments to facilitate the flow of newsworthy achievements.
The meeting concluded with discussions on the G20 Bioeconomy Initiative, with Brazil hosting the first Experts Meeting on March 13-14. The monthly review meetings of Science Secretaries, initiated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, aim to foster collaboration and a synergistic integrated approach among different scientific streams.
Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, Dr. Ajay K Sood, and Secretaries from various Science Ministries and Departments, including DSIR, CSIR, DST, DBT, and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, attended the deliberations, ensuring a comprehensive and collaborative approach towards scientific advancements.