Penned By- Prisita Das
New Delhi: Bringing laurels to Odisha, Soumyashree Thanapati, a student of Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Jharmunda, has emerged as the winner of the National Science Seminar 2026, organised by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
The national-level seminar was held on October 30, 2026, at the National Science Centre, Delhi, bringing together students representing 34 States and Union Territories. This year’s theme, “Indian Energy Basket 2047: Prospects and Challenges,” encouraged young participants to explore India’s future energy requirements, emerging energy technologies, sustainable energy alternatives and the challenges of ensuring long-term energy security.
Soumyashree secured the top position among the participants, while Dibyanshi Parida from Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu was declared the first runner-up. Eight other students representing Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Tripura, Chandigarh, Gujarat, Arunachal Pradesh and Haryana were also recognised as runners-up.
As the winner, Soumyashree received a trophy, certificate and a scholarship of ₹48,000. Each of the nine runner-ups was awarded a trophy, certificate and scholarship of ₹24,000, taking the total scholarship amount to ₹2.64 lakh.
Since its inception in 1982, the National Science Seminar has been providing a national platform for school students to develop scientific curiosity, critical thinking and communication skills through discussions on important scientific and technological issues.
The inaugural ceremony commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by the inaugural address. Dr. Anil Kumar Jain, IAS, Chairperson of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), attended as the Chief Guest, while Shri Rajnath Ram, Adviser (Energy), NITI Aayog, was the Guest of Honour.
Speaking on the significance of the seminar, Shri K. S. Murali, Director General, National Council of Science Museums, highlighted how the initiative has been inspiring students for over four decades to develop scientific temper and engage with issues shaping the country’s future. He emphasised that the 2026 theme would encourage young minds to understand energy security, technological innovation and sustainable development.
Shri Vijay Shanker Sharma, Director, National Science Centre, Delhi, observed that the seminar offered talented students an opportunity to exchange ideas on a subject of national importance. He expressed hope that the experience would inspire participants to remain curious, think innovatively and contribute towards India’s sustainable energy future.
The valedictory session was attended by Prof. Avinash Chandra Pandey, Director, Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), New Delhi, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Ajay Kumar Saxena, Senior Director, Electricity and Renewables, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), New Delhi, as the Guest of Honour.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Moinuddin Ansari, Principal Curator, National Science Centre, Delhi.
Soumyashree’s achievement marks a proud moment for Odisha, bringing national recognition to the state’s young scientific talent. Her success also underscores the importance of nurturing scientific curiosity and encouraging students to contribute their ideas towards addressing India’s future challenges.
