RSBVP 2025–26 ‘Gyanodaya’ Opens in A&N Islands, Showcasing 111 Student Innovations

The two-day Rajya Stariya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshani (RSBVP) 2025–26, themed “STEM for Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat,” began today at Government Girls Senior Secondary School. Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, inaugurated the exhibition in the presence of Deputy Commissioner (South Andaman) Arun Sharma and officials of the Directorate of Education. The event is being held by the Science Wing of the Directorate of Education in collaboration with Samagra Shiksha and NCERT, New Delhi.

Following the inauguration, the Chief Secretary visited stalls across all educational zones, interacting with students and examining their models. He praised the collective efforts of students, teachers, and parents in fostering a scientific mindset across the Islands. In his address, he urged students to remain focused, work diligently, and nurture curiosity to develop innovative solutions for the future. Referencing Isaac Newton’s words, “Standing on the shoulders of giants,” he underscored the value of learning from great thinkers and striving for excellence. He also encouraged students to lead joyful, purposeful lives and advised organizers to ensure that all students visit each exhibit to promote peer learning. He recommended identifying a “most popular project” based on student engagement.

Director (Education) Vikram Singh, in his welcome address, highlighted the significance of the exhibition in encouraging creativity and scientific exploration among young learners.

A total of 111 exhibits from nine educational zones were displayed, covering seven themes: Emerging Technologies, Sustainable Agriculture, Health and Hygiene, Green Energy, Water Conservation, Waste Management, and Recreational Mathematical Modelling. Students, including those from remote regions and CWSN categories, presented projects reflecting local challenges and environmental concerns.

Among the exhibits, students of GMS Ganesh Nagar, North Andaman, showcased flower pots crafted from discarded jute bags, promoting sustainable recycling. A student from Government Middle School, Kakana, demonstrated a hydroponic model suitable for island conditions. At GSSS Kapanga, a student presented an original Rat and Cheese Mathematical Game blending logic with play. A participant from GSS Mildera displayed “Providing Passive Income in the Nicobar Region through Sustainable Oxygen Harvesting and Jungle Oxy-Candy,” offering a unique perspective on livelihood opportunities. Students from PM SHRI Senior Secondary School, Campbell Bay, presented a research-based project on the shrinking habitats of the crab-eating macaque and increasing human–wildlife conflict, drawing significant attention.

The inaugural session ended with a vote of thanks by Ram Parvesh, Deputy Director of Education (Science). The second day will include a special lecture by Professor S. V. Sharma from the National Institute of Education on reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable environmental practices. Inter-island student delegations will also participate in exposure visits to the National Memorial Cellular Jail, Science Centre, and other notable locations to enhance experiential learning.