At science fest, 2,000 students to take a shot at new world record

While the event is being organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology, NCERT is helping out by providing the necessary training, Gupta added.

Currently, the record is held by 1,300 students from Ireland who conducted an experiment simultaneously at the same venue. “We have been working as per the guidelines mentioned by the Guinness World Record authorities,” said Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Harsh Vardhan.

The five-day festival is being organised by the ministry in collaboration with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh-affiliated Vijnana Bharati. Asked about the involvement of the body, Gupta said, “IIT Delhi is just hosting the event. All decisions pertaining to organisers have been taken by the ministry.”

“The main thrust of the event is on students and young innovators. As many as 400 research papers will also be presented,” said Harsh Vardhan.

The three-day fest will see young scientists display their research on subjects such as indigenous science and technology, innovative agricultural practices, livestock management and advanced manufacturing technologies.

The event also has a film festival that will showcase movies on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pet projects such as ‘Swacch Bharat Abhiyan’, ‘Digital India’ & ‘Make in India’. “Films are the best ways to sensitise and educate the masses. They reach out to people and make them understand issues better,” said Gupta.

“There have been science festivals organised in the country, but none on this scale,” Gupta added.

The festival will also include a conference by young scientists, a techno-industrial expo, an industry-academia conclave and interactive workshops on various topics.