Berhampur: In a remarkable showcase of scientific innovation and youthful brilliance, the National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) in Berhampur has successfully concluded the highly-anticipated NIST Science Talent Search 2023 (NSTS-2023). This nationwide competition unfolded from May to October 2023, attracting the enthusiastic participation of school and higher secondary students from all corners of the country. This year’s theme, “Sustainable Innovation,” was thoughtfully chosen to reflect the global demand for eco-friendly solutions in an increasingly complex world.
The call for participation was initiated in May 2023, with submissions being accepted until September 11, 2023. A staggering 550 teams registered for this prestigious event through the online portal at www.nist.edu/talentsearch. Rigorous screening, involving the careful evaluation of 53 remarkable ideas by an expert panel, led to the selection of these teams. These bright young minds were then offered mentorship by esteemed professors and industry experts.
Following this, the shortlisted teams moved to the screening round, where they presented their innovative ideas through video conferencing. Subsequently, 18 teams from various states across India were selected to participate in the grand finale. Here, they had the unique opportunity to showcase their projects and present their ideas before a distinguished jury.
The eminent panel of judges for the grand finale included illustrious figures from the realm of science and technology, namely Dr. Bijan Das, Ex-Deputy Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, ISRO; Dr. Sunil Kr. Sarangi, FNAE, Ex-Director, NIT Rourkela; Dr. Prasanta K Panigrahi, Director, IISER, Kolkata; and Sri. Prabuddha Ranjan Mohanty, Ex-Chairman, Heavy Water Board, Dept. of Atomic Energy.
After careful deliberation, the panel of judges announced the winners, awarding them with substantial cash prizes for their remarkable achievements. In the Senior category, the coveted first place was secured by Averron Maverick from Vidya Vihar Educational Academy in Bihar, who earned an impressive cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000. The runner-up position was claimed by VIDHA Aziz Public School in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh, with a well-deserved cash award of Rs. 50,000. Notably, the third place was clinched by SOS Senior from SOS Village in Guwahati, Assam, earning a commendable cash prize of Rs. 25,000.
In the Junior category, the top honours went to ObestressAlerter from DAV Kalinga Nagar in BBSR, Odisha, securing the first place and an enticing cash prize of Rs. 30,000. The second place was earned by Renew Desal from Sarala Birla in Guwahati, Assam, with a cash reward of Rs. 20,000. The third position was claimed by Coders Spot from DAV Chandrasekharpur in BBSR, Odisha, receiving a noteworthy cash prize of Rs. 10,000.
The awards ceremony was graced by the presence of Sri. Prabuddha Ranjan Mohanty, Ex-Chairman, Heavy Water Board, Dept. of Atomic Energy, who served as the Chief Guest. The winning teams received their well-deserved cash prizes from the Chief Guest. The significant cash rewards not only acknowledge the young talents’ dedication to science but also serve as an encouragement for further research and innovation.
The event culminated with an enlightening visit to the Buddhist monastery at Jeerango in Gajapati District, where the students interacted with the elders of the settlement. The purpose was to understand how this community had adapted to the region with minimal resources and how they rebuilt their civilization after migrating from Ladakh. The students gained valuable insights into best practices related to water management, cropping, energy production, marketing, and various skills.
The event was inaugurated by founder chairman Dr. Sukant K. Mahapatro through an online mode. Principal In Charge Dr.Bishnukar Nayak delivered the opening address, while HR and Admin Head Er. Sayad Suleman Ali extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries. The event’s seamless coordination was overseen by Dr. Sushanta Ku. Sahu, Dr. Subrat Ku. Bhuyan, Dr. Preeti Ranjan Sahu, Mr. Prabhas Raj Panigrahi, Mr. Asutosh Pati, and Mr. Pitambar Sahu.
The NIST Science Talent Search 2023 not only celebrated the spirit of scientific inquiry but also encouraged the next generation to continue their journey in the world of innovation and sustainability. This event was a testament to the exceptional talent and potential of young minds across India.
