In a remarkable display of scientific enthusiasm, 6,874 students from 139 schools across India and 130 students in London participated in a Guinness World Record (GWR) attempt during the 6th India International Science Festival (IISF) 2020. The event, held at the open park area of CSIR-NISTADS, marked the first activity of the festival’s GWR program.
Students, both physically and virtually, assembled sun-dial kits with light-shadow and time devices, aiming for the record of largest simultaneous gathering of children making sun-dials. Ms. Sophia, a resource person from London, guided 130 students online, successfully completing their assemblies.
The GWR event was part of the “Mega Science, Technology & Industry Expo” at IISF 2020, which sees participation from over 400 scientific and industrial institutions. Another flagship initiative, the “Student Science Village – Mega Science Hub”, also commenced alongside the record attempt.
Congratulating the young participants, Union Minister of Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, lauded the initiative, saying, “The virtual participation of thousands of children is itself a unique event. I hope such activities will inspire a love for science in everyday life and contribute to the dream of a Self-reliant India.”
Prominent dignitaries present included DG, CSIR Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, Director CSIR-NISTADS Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, National Organising Secretary Vijnana Bharati Shri Jayant Sahasrabudhe, and IISF-2020 Coordinator Dr. Arvind C. Ranade.
This Guinness World Record attempt not only highlights India’s growing emphasis on STEM education but also demonstrates the power of virtual collaboration in unprecedented times.
