The India International Science Festival (IISF–2025) Curtain Raiser was hosted today at the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa.

The India International Science Festival (IISF–2025) Curtain Raiser was hosted at the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa, marking the beginning of an inspiring journey towards “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: For Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” The event reflected India’s continued commitment to harnessing science, research, and innovation for national progress and self-reliance.  The gathering was welcomed by Dr. Rahul Mohan, NCPOR, followed by insightful addresses from Prof. I.K. Pai (Vijnana Bharati, Goa) and Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director, NCPOR, who outlined the goals and vision of IISF 2025. The event was coordinated by Dr. Avinash Kumar, NCPOR. IISF 2025 will take place from 6–9 December 2025 in Chandigarh, showcasing India’s scientific excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth.

A special talk titled “Understanding the Frozen Frontiers: Why the Coldest Places Matter the Most” was delivered by Dr. Rahul Mohan from NCPOR. The session offered insightful perspectives on how polar regions hold vital clues to Earth’s climate system and concluded with an engaging discussion with the participants.

At the IISF Curtain Raiser held at NCPOR, the audience enjoyed a special screening of the film “Climate Challenge”, followed by an immersive Science On a Sphere (SoS) session that brought science to life through stunning, interactive visuals of our planet. Scientists from NCPOR also engaged with school students, fostering curiosity and dialogue on climate and polar science.