Science League Becomes Annual Event to Promote STEM Education

Itanagar, India Jul 19, 2026 ALN: ITANAGAR, 18 Jul: The first edition of the Science League concluded on Friday with the state government announcing that the event will now feature in the annual calendar of the Department of Youth Affairs, marking a major step towards promoting scientific innovation and STEM education among the youths.

The Science League is an initiative designed to inspire and engage young minds in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). These disciplines are increasingly recognized as crucial for the development of innovative solutions to contemporary challenges, including environmental sustainability, healthcare advancements, and technological progress. The decision to institutionalize the Science League as an annual event underscores the government's commitment to integrating STEM education into the fabric of youth development in the region.

Organised by the Department of Youth Affairs, in collaboration with the State Council for Science and Technology, the event was held at the Science Centre at IG Park under the theme ‘STEM for Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat’. This theme aligns with the broader national vision of achieving a self-reliant India, or 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', which emphasizes the importance of innovation and self-sufficiency in various sectors, including technology and agriculture.

The competition brought together some of the state’s brightest young innovators, who presented projects addressing real-world challenges through science and technology. This platform not only provided an opportunity for students to showcase their talents but also encouraged them to think critically and creatively about solutions to pressing issues faced by their communities and the world at large.

Participants showcased innovations across a wide range of themes, including emerging technology, water conservation and management, green energy, sustainable agriculture, health and hygiene, waste management, and other contemporary STEM disciplines. These themes are particularly relevant given the global emphasis on sustainable development and the urgent need for innovative approaches to environmental conservation and resource management.

The competition received more than 40 entries from across the state, with the junior category alone attracting over 30 submissions. The organisers said the quality of projects was so impressive that the jury found it difficult to shortlist winners. In recognition of the exceptional standard of entries, the department enhanced the first prize in the junior category from the originally announced Rs 70,000 to Rs 90,000. This decision reflects the organizers' commitment to rewarding creativity and excellence among young innovators, thereby motivating them to pursue their interests in STEM fields.

The projects were evaluated by an eminent panel comprising Dr Arup Misra, chairman of the Assam Pollution Control Board, Dr Nitin Maurya, Scientist E at the National Innovation Foundation, Noida, and Dr Bula Chaudhuri of Biotech Park, Guwahati. The involvement of such distinguished professionals in the evaluation process not only added credibility to the event but also provided participants with valuable feedback from experts in their respective fields.

Adding to the event’s appeal, technical officer Tarun Das of the Birla Industrial and Technological Museum, Kolkata, conducted an interactive ‘fun science show’, featuring live scientific demonstrations and a bubble show that drew enthusiastic participation from students. Such interactive sessions are essential in making science accessible and engaging, especially for younger audiences who may not yet have a deep understanding of scientific concepts. The Science Centre also organised complimentary planetarium shows for more than 350 students, offering them an immersive introduction to astronomy and space science. This exposure is crucial in fostering a passion for science and exploration among the youth.

In the senior category, Mitto Mossang of Rajiv Gandhi University won the first prize for a project on emerging technology. Tabuk Taggu and Paul secured the second prize for their work on water conservation and management, while Niktar Tare, Vijay Taniu and Toko Tem finished third for developing a hybrid multi-layered TEG system. These projects exemplify the innovative spirit and technical acumen of the participants, showcasing solutions that could potentially address significant challenges in their respective fields.

In the junior category, Bengia Ama of Don Bosco College claimed the top prize for a hands-free cooking device. Yompin Kena of Scholars Institute secured second place for Kombo AI, while Swati Upadhyay and Aditya Mishra of the NERIST finished third for their project ‘Gesture to Voice’. The variety of projects highlights the diverse interests and capabilities of the youth in the region, reflecting a growing trend towards practical applications of technology in everyday life.

Among the special recognitions, Rei Lemo of NIOS received the people’s choice award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 10,000, after securing the highest number of public votes for an emerging technology project. Bolam Loham was presented with the special jury award and a cash prize of Rs 10,000 for developing an innovative exoskeleton project, which the jury described as having significant future potential. These awards not only acknowledge individual achievements but also encourage a culture of innovation and excellence among peers.

Officials said the inclusion of the Science League in the department’s annual calendar reflects the government’s long-term commitment to fostering scientific temperament, innovation and research among students and young entrepreneurs. This initiative is expected to create a robust ecosystem for scientific inquiry and entrepreneurship, providing a platform for students to develop their skills and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Science League is envisioned to become the state’s premier platform for nurturing scientific talent, encouraging innovation, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, the officials said. By institutionalizing this event, the government aims to create a sustained interest in STEM fields, which are critical for the future economic and social development of the region. The long-term implications of such initiatives could lead to a more skilled workforce, increased research output, and a stronger emphasis on innovation as a driver of growth in the state.

As the Science League prepares for its future editions, it has the potential to evolve into a significant contributor to the overall educational landscape. By engaging students in meaningful scientific exploration and encouraging collaborative problem-solving, the event could play a crucial role in shaping the future of STEM education in the region and beyond. The ongoing support from educational institutions, government agencies, and the private sector will be vital for the continued success and impact of the Science League, ultimately paving the way for a generation of innovators ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.