Mysore/Mysuru: India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 Curtain Raiser event was held at CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in city on Nov. 27 featuring Prof. Utpal S. Tatu, Chair of Biochemistry at IISc Bengaluru, as chief guest.

Dr. A.M. Sudhakara, Vice- President of VIBHA, Karnataka, was the guest of honour. Dr. Giridhar Parvatam, Director of CFTRI, presided over the event.

The mission of IISF 2025 is ‘Vigyan Se Samruddhi: For Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ to celebrate and advance the spirit of science-led growth for a self-reliant and prosperous India.

R.S. Matche, Chief Scientist, introduced the dignitaries.

Prof. Tatu highlighted the importance of the One Health concept in food safety and discussed the impact of climate change on food-borne pathogens. He also noted that his laboratory at IISc had developed RT-PCR-based Coronavirus diagnostics as early as 2015.

Dr. Sudhakara spoke on the spirit of innovation, Aatmanirbharta and ‘India for Global Good,’ outlining the themes of IISF 2025 and the role of science & technology in national growth.

Dr. Giridhar emphasised the relevance of ancient knowledge in modern science and called the celebration of science a tribute to its societal value. He also mentioned that IISF aims to inspire young minds and emphasise the important role of science in building a Viksit Bharat.

Encouraging students to explore the world of science, he reiterated that their participation and contributions will be crucial for national growth and future innovation. Scientists and students of CFTRI attended. Also, nearly 75 students from University of Mysore participated.

They visited CFTRI’s research labs and pilot plants, including the Food Engineering and Plant Cell Biotechnology Departments.