One of the mandates of National Knowledge Commission is to attract talented students for a career in basic sciences and mathematics. A strong foundation in basic sciences is needed to create the next generation of competent teachers and scientific talent. Technology development is impossible without a strong research and development base of basic science and mathematics. To revive and consolidate ‘Science’ as a career option for bright students from across the country National Knowledge Commission has suggested to increase the number of existing fellowships such as Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojna (KVPY) and to start new fellowships schemes like INSPIRE. Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) is thus a programme by the Department of Science and Technology for attraction of talent to study science and opt careers with research. The motivation behind INSPIRE is to enlarge the pool of scientific human power and foster research in the sciences. The Scheme includes three sub-components viz., Scheme for Early Attraction of Talent (SEATS), Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) and Assured Opportunity for Research Careers (AORC). As one sub components of SEATS, Summer/winter camps for about 50,000 youth are being organised throughout India in which students interact with global science leaders. Summer/Winter Camps are organized for age group 16 – 17 years, Class XI students. According to Dr. Umesh Kumar, Scientist DST who was present at the inaugural session of Inspire Camp at NIT, it was the third such camp in Kashmir valley. Six camps have been organized in Jammu region and one has been organized in Ladakh. More such camps will follow regularly in this region.
The inaugural session of the camp began with an introduction of the Institute by Prof. MD Mufti, Dean R&D and chairman Inspire Camp. The director NIT, Prof. Rajat Gupta elaborated on the genesis of Inspire programme. Prof. Gupta urged the young participants to undertake research in future on contemporary issues such as solar power, climate, environment, wildlife conservation, eradication of epidemic diseases etc. Jenab Wajahat Habibullah, Chairman Board of Governors, NIT Srinagar who was the Chief guest emphasised on the importance of this programme. He expressed that this programme is an acknowledgement of the excellence achieved by the students of Jammu and Kashmir.
A book on Nanotechnology entitled ‘ Principles of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology’ co-authored by Convener of Inspire Camp Dr. Ashraf Shah was released on the occasion. A review of the book was presented by Prof Anima Nanda of Sathyabama University, Chennai.
During the camp the students from all over the valley got a chance to interact with renowned scientists from prestigious scientific organizations of the country. The keynote address was delivered by Prof T Pal from IIT Kharagpur on Nanotechnology. The other mentors include Prof Talat Ahmad, VC Kashmir University, Prof. Anjali Pal from IIT Kharagpur, Prof Ranjani Vishvanathan from JNCASR, Prof R Tondon from Delhi University, Prof Shaijumon from IISER, Prof. BB Kale from C-MET Pune and Prof. S Lone from IIT Kanpur.
Apart from lectures, the students of the camp got a chance to visit various labs of NIT Srinagar. They Participated in science quiz and essay competition. They keenly watched screening of scientific documentary ‘Behind the Dark Ages’ made by Mr. Akif Mufti, a student IUST. The documentary highlights the achievements of medieval scientists and polymaths like Ibn al Haytham, Ibn Sina, Abu Rehan Alberuni and al Khwarizmi.
Students also appreciated the scientific philately exhibition displayed by Dr Seemin Rubab, co-convener of the Camp. The stamps exhibition was on several themes including remarkable scientists from Arab, India and world. The other theme was centered around conservation of natural resources. Stamps on astronomy and astrophysics were also on display.
At valedictory function the students interacted with Dr. Faisal Shah, an IAS officer of Jammu and Kashmir cadre and topper of civil services examination. In the same session there was a lecture on career by Mr. Maruf Shah.
After lunch, the students from various districts of the valley were flagged off to their respective destinations by Convener of the programme Dr. Ashraf Shah
