HT Correspondent
TEZPUR, Feb 27: “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 organisation forward. Therefore, one should be a catalyst, rather than a leader,” said Dr Tapan Kumar Saikia, director of Oncology Sciences, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre and Assam Baibhav awardee while attending the tenth edition of inSCIgnis as chief guest.
inSCIgnis is the annual science fest of Tezpur University, observed every year on the occasion of National Science Day and this year, it started from Sunday. 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, Dr Tapan Kumar Saikia 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.
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Noted wildlife biologist, Dr Purnima Devi Barman, popularly known as ‘Hargila Baideu’ in Assam 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 their 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 organising InSCIgnis. He said that the entire event is organised 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 a 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
