The tenth edition of inSCIgnis-the annual science fest of Tezpur University, observed every year on the occasion of National Science Day kick started from today (26-02-2023). National Science Day is celebrated every year on February 28 to commemorate the contribution of the first Nobel Laureate in Physics for India, Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman.
This year the theme of inSCIgnis is “Vigyanasya Drishte Bhavishyatam” which means “Future through the vision of science.”
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, Dr. Tapan Kumar Saikia, Director of Oncology Sciences, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre and Assam Baibhav awardee urged students to be catalyst, rather than a leader. “A catalyst is someone who sparks change by motivating and empowering others to act. They may not have the authority or resources of a leader, but they are able to create momentum and build a sense of shared purpose that can drive a group or organization forward. Therefore, one should be catalyst, rather than a leader”, Dr. Saikia explained. He also spoke of not getting tired of doing once work. He said that it is possible only when one is not comparing once work with others. He advised the young students not to get distracted by challenges. He explained that challenges are like traffic signals, temporarily it stops the momentum, but the green signal is bound to come.
Noted wildlife biologist, Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, was present on the occasion as the guest of honour. Dr. Barman highlighted the challenges she faced during her campaign to protect the greater adjutant stork known as Hargila in Assam. She pointed out that in order to safeguard nature-awareness is key. She further added that superstition needs to be replaced by scientific temper and therefore science should reach the masses. Dr. Barman further said that much discussion on climate change and sustainability has happened, but it all depends on behavior change and everyone needs to ask what they are doing to bring sustainability. Dr. Barman urged everyone to be a conservation leader and be attached to our roots.
Commenting on the event, Vice-Chancellor (Acting) of Tezpur University, Prof. Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya said, “InSCIgnis 2023 is an excellent opportunity for young minds to come together and explore the fascinating world of science and technology. He also lauded the outreach work of the students, focusing on disseminating scientific information among rural students spanning 14 districts and 26 institutions.
Addressing the audience, Prof. Debajit Hazarika, Dean, School of Sciences congratulated the students for organizing InSCIgnis. He said that the entire event is organized by the students and every passing year the event is growing in stature and popularity.
The three-day science fest has included several new and thrilling events viz. Blitz: The Start-Up Event hunting for modern scientific start-up and business ideas from aspiring entrepreneurs. Lights, Camera, Action is another exciting fun event related to filmmaking.
There shall be Design and Experiment event to provide an opportunity to shape and design imaginations into models. Other new events are the Sci-Bazinga- a fun and twisted bingo game and the Astro Board Game which would test the astronomical knowledge of the participants in a Ludo sheet.
“Anunaad”-an annual science magazine was also launched on the occasion.
