National Science Day and Valedictory Session of Innovation Festival Organized at Regional Science Centre, UCOST,
National Science Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Regional Science Centre, UCOST on 28 February 2026, culminating in the Valedictory Session of the two day Innovation Festival. This year’s National Science Day theme, was “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat”. The program highlighted the importance of nurturing scientific talent and innovation among young minds.
The Valedictory Session was graced by Shri Munna Singh Chauhan, MLA, Vikasnagar, Dehradun, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized that fostering scientific temperament is essential for societal progress and sustainable development. He encouraged students to actively engage in science and innovation to contribute towards nation-building. He inspired students to develop leadership qualities.
A vibrant Science March was organized to draw attention to contemporary scientific issues. More than 200 students from various schools across Dehradun participated, including The Arcadia School, Junior High School Sudhowala, Junior High School Dhulkot, Junior High School Kharakhet, and Primary School Parade Ground.
A special session chaired by Prof. Bhanu Duggal, Vice Chancellor of HNB Uttarakhand Medical Education University, focused on advancements and innovations in the medical sector. She delivered an insightful lecture on emerging trends and research-driven developments in healthcare.
Another special session titled “Inspiring Innovation” was conducted by the Advisor, Science City and Former Director General of National Council of Science Museums (NCSM). The session provided valuable career guidance and motivated students to explore opportunities in science and technology.A Science Demonstration Lecture featuring hands-on experiments further captivated the participants, encouraging experiential learning and curiosity-driven inquiry. Dr DP Uniyal, Joint Director UCOST, presented the program report of Innovation Festival 2026.
During the Valedictory Session, winners of various competitions—including Rangoli, Extempore, Quiz, Poster, Model, and Drama were felicitated by the Chief Guest.
On the occasion, a book featuring a collection of Holi songs authored by Shri Navin Bisht was also inaugurated.
The event concluded with a vibrant cultural programme and Holi Milan celebration, where artists Shri Hem Pant and team from NINAAD Foundation delivered a captivating performance. More than 300 students, along with officials from UCOST and the Regional Science Centre, participated in and contributed to the success of the programme.
List of Winners
Poster Competition
1st Prize: Divya and Sandhya – Dolphin PG Institute of Biomedical and Natural Sciences
Extempore Competition
1st Prize: Yavin Baskar – St. Joseph’s Academy, Dehradun
2nd Prize: Prakriti Chattoh – SARC Education Foundation, Nepal
3rd Prize: Vivek Bhatt – SARC Education Foundation, Nepal
Model Competition
1st Prize: Suvir and Yavin Baskar
Rangoli Competition
Senior Group
1st Prize: Kashish, Khushi, Abhishikta – The Arcadia School
2nd Prize: Mrunmayi Patil, Ankit Kumar – Dolphin PG Institute of Biomedical and Natural Sciences
3rd Prize: Kavya Garg, Siddhi Tyagi, Tarivi Sharma – Doon International School, Riverside Campus
Junior Group
1st Prize: Prisha Kaniyal (Class 6) – The TonsBridge School, Dehradun
Drama Competition
1st Prize: Him Jyoti School, Dehradun
Quiz Competition
Winners: Vivek Bhatt, Amit, Babita Bohra, Karuna Dhami, Simran Bhatt, Saraswati Raisal – SARC Education Foundation, Nepal; and Yavin Baskar – St. Joseph’s Academy, Dehradun
The celebration of National Science Day at the Regional Science Centre, UCOST, successfully reinforced the spirit of inquiry, innovation, and scientific awareness among students, aligning with the national vision of building a scientifically empowered and developed India.
