Intel reaches out to young scientists through IRIS

India's largest science initiative for students, Initiative for Research & Innovation in Science, the three-way public-private partnership between Department of Science and Technology, CII and chipmaker Intel plans to host a young innovator's exhibition in Kiokata later this week.

The three-day event starting 4 December, is aimed at promoting and nurturing science and scientific research amongst young Indian innovators by recognising and rewarding outstanding projects and providing a platform for them to represent India at International fairs like the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF), and International Exhibition for Young Inventors (IEYI).

IRIS has received over 1,000 project entries from school students across the country. The students participated by sending synopsis entries across 10 categories including chemistry, earth and space science, physics, mathematics, zoology, botany, bio-chemistry, environmental science, computer science and engineering.

The scientific review committee, comprising of eminent Indian scientists have short-listed the 100 best ideas which will now compete for the national awards at the competition.

Commenting on the growing popularity of IRIS, Praveen Vishakantaiah, president, Intel India, said, ''Innovation needs nurturing, and Intel is committed to sustaining an environment for young minds to excel in. IRIS has been designed to infuse and help build a scientific temperament and nurture innovation with young Indians. As IRIS gains momentum year after year, we will continue to encourage students in the country to think creatively and provide them an opportunity to showcase their scientific abilities to the world. In the long run, this will help build world class innovators in the country.''

Talking about the partnership with Intel and the efforts undertaken for IRIS, Anuj Sinha, advisor and head (NCSTC), department of science & technology said, ''Application while learning is key to stimulate young minds and arouse curiosity about scientific phenomenon. With this partnership, we are harnessing the youth to divert more towards project-based learning, thus showcasing their innovative thinking and creative ability. Our scientific review committee has got a real task ahead to select the best projects from the increased quality entries this year. This is a clear indication that we are on the right track of what we set to achieve at the inception of IRIS. ''

IRIS is the merger of two programs, 'Intel's Science Talent Discovery Fair' and DST-CII's 'Steer the Big Idea'. This year, participants in two categories are eligible for participation. The first category involves participation from students in 5th to 8th standard (under the age of 13 yrs) and the second category involves 9th to 12th standard students (under the age of 20 yrs).

This is a unique platform in India to provide stimulation and encouragement to young scientists in the making and Intel is proud to be involved in this exciting educational programme. This is Intel's way of nurturing bright young minds so that they can shine in future.