Dainik India news,Lucknow, November 5, 2024 — In celebration of its 60th Diamond Jubilee, the CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (IITR) hosted an Open Day that welcomed the public and students to explore its scientific achievements and facilities. This significant event was organized in collaboration with Vigyan Bharati-Awadh Prant as part of the India International Science Festival (IISF) outreach program, designed to elevate scientific awareness and cultivate an appreciation for research and development in India.
The day commenced with an enthusiastic welcome from Dr. R. Parthasarathi, who introduced the attendees to the objectives of the IISF through an engaging video presentation. Dignitaries in attendance included Dr. Maulindu Mishra, Vice President of Vigyan Bharati-Awadh Prant, who served as the guest of honor. In his address, Dr. Mishra emphasized the significance of scientific exploration and the role of community outreach in fostering a robust culture of science.
Adding to the day’s insights was Dr. Probod Halde, Head of Regulatory Affairs at Marico Ltd., who inspired the audience with his perspectives on the burgeoning importance of research within the industry. The event reached its zenith with a keynote address from the chief guest, Dr. Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director of CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI). He underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts among scientific institutions to tackle national challenges effectively.
In his presidential remarks, Dr. N. Bhaskar, Director of CSIR-IITR, urged students to perceive science as a pathway for personal and national advancement, calling upon the next generation to leverage innovation for societal betterment.
A highlight of the Open Day was the IISF Roadshow, celebrating scientific achievements and showcasing ongoing advancements in science and technology. This was complemented by a comprehensive Science & Technology Expo, where all four CSIR laboratories based in Lucknow displayed their latest research and innovations. The expo provided hands-on experiences and demonstrations, allowing attendees to witness firsthand the transformative power of science.
The event attracted over 800 students from various schools and colleges throughout Lucknow, offering them unique opportunities to engage directly with scientists and researchers. These interactions enabled students to delve into the realm of scientific inquiry, fostering curiosity as they posed questions and explored potential careers in science and research. Additionally, engaging workshops and quiz sessions tested students’ knowledge and stimulated their inquisitive minds.
A focal point of the Open Day was the tour of CSIR-IITR’s cutting-edge research facilities. Visitors explored advanced laboratories, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) units, as well as flow cytometry and analytical chemistry facilities. They also learned about the Institute’s pioneering work in computational toxicology, employing computational models to predict toxic responses, and the innovative 3-D bioprinting labs, which investigate groundbreaking biomedical applications.
Furthering its commitment to fostering innovation, CSIR-IITR organized a workshop on “Entrepreneurship in Safe Manufacturing,” aimed at inspiring students towards scientific entrepreneurship and promoting safe, sustainable manufacturing practices. This workshop sought to expand students’ perspectives on science, illustrating its potential not only as a discovery tool but also as a means to create impactful products and services for society.
Through this landmark event, CSIR-IITR endeavored to ignite a passion for science among young minds, portraying science as a vehicle for nation-building and a potent catalyst for India’s development. By showcasing the vast potential of scientific research and innovation, CSIR-IITR’s Diamond Jubilee Open Day aimed to instill curiosity, responsibility, and inspiration in the nation’s future scientists and innovators.
