The ICMR-National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), Bhubaneswar, hosted the ICMR-SHINE (Science & Health Innovation for the Nextgen Explorers) Initiative 2026 on Tuesday, bringing together around 400 students from Classes 9 to 12 from schools in Bhubaneswar and adjoining areas.
The day-long programme was organised as part of the nationwide SHINE initiative being conducted across 28 ICMR institutes and field units to encourage scientific curiosity and promote interest in biomedical research among school students.
Students get first-hand exposure to biomedical research
The programme offered students an opportunity to move beyond textbooks and experience biomedical research through laboratory visits, live demonstrations, interactive sessions, exhibitions, films and interactions with scientists.
The event was virtually inaugurated by Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General, ICMR, who addressed the participating students and highlighted ICMR’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccine development, diagnostic testing and treatment protocols.
Encouraging students to visit research institutions and interact with scientists, Bahl emphasised the importance of developing a scientific way of thinking.
He also referred to ICMR’s work on rapid diagnostic approaches for tuberculosis using DNA- and RNA-based technologies and encouraged students to view science as an important part of everyday life.
Sanghamitra Pati encourages students to ask questions
Addressing the students, Dr Sanghamitra Pati, Additional Director General, ICMR and Director, ICMR-NIHR Bhubaneswar, encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity by observing, asking questions and interacting with researchers.
She highlighted the importance of nurturing curiosity and explained that scientific research extends beyond laboratory experiments, with knowledge and innovation ultimately being translated into solutions that can improve healthcare and people’s lives.
Students learn about ICMR’s research initiatives
As part of the programme, students were introduced to the work and achievements of ICMR-NIHR Bhubaneswar through a series of short films covering:
- The legacy and journey of ICMR-NIHR Bhubaneswar
- The science and story behind the development of Covaxin
- Drone-based medical delivery systems
- Vishanu Yudh Abhyaas, an initiative focused on epidemic preparedness
A guided laboratory tour was another major highlight, allowing students to explore research facilities, witness live demonstrations and learn about ongoing biomedical research at the centre.
An exhibition showcasing the centre’s research activities also helped students understand how scientific discoveries can be translated into public health interventions.
Quiz, scientist-student interaction
Students participated in a quiz competition and interactive sessions with scientists, giving them an opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas and learn about the work and experiences of researchers.
The activities were designed to help students understand science beyond textbooks and recognise its relevance to real-world health challenges.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates and refreshments, followed by a selfie session with Dr Curio, ICMR’s mascot.
The Communication Unit of ICMR-NIHR Bhubaneswar coordinated the programme and oversaw its planning and execution.
The ICMR-SHINE Initiative 2026 at Bhubaneswar marked an effort to deepen scientific engagement among young students by providing direct exposure to laboratories, researchers and innovations in health and biomedical science.
