‘— A Three-Day National Symposium Inspiring India’s Youth Towards Science, Space and Innovation
New Delhi : The Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam International Foundation (Kalam’s House, Rameswaram) formally inaugurated the three-day national symposium “Space Mission–2025” in New Delhi. The prestigious event was inaugurated by Dr. APJM Sheikh Saleem, grand nephew of former President and renowned scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, in the presence of several eminent scientists, academicians, policymakers, and dignitaries.
Organised in collaboration with ISRO scientists, leading academic institutions, and national experts, the symposium aims to celebrate Dr. Kalam’s legacy of scientific excellence, innovation, and youth empowerment through science and technology. It provides a platform for students, researchers, and educators to come together and explore new frontiers in space science and innovation.
A National Celebration of Science and Inspiration
Held at the NCUI Auditorium and Convention Centre, August Kranti Marg, New Delhi, from October 13th to 15th, 2025, the event marks the 94th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The symposium has drawn participation from more than 1,000 students and teachers representing schools, engineering colleges, and universities across the nation.
Participants came from various states, including Delhi, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bhopal, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra, showcasing India’s diverse educational landscape united under Dr. Kalam’s vision of “Dream, Innovate, Achieve.”
The session was moderated by Dr. Anjali Chincholikar, who guided the proceedings with insightful observations and engaging dialogue between the panellists and the student participants.
Distinguished Guests and Visionary Leadership
The highlight of the symposium will be the Valedictory Session on October 15th, where Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will attend as the Chief Guest. She will be joined by Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Information and Broadcasting; Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India; and Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood.
The dignitaries will interact directly with the participating students, motivating them to pursue careers in science, technology, research, and innovation. Their participation underscores the government’s commitment to promoting scientific temper and technological advancement among India’s youth.
Honouring Kalam’s Legacy
Continuing the national tradition, the Honourable President of India will lay a wreath at Dr. Kalam’s portrait at Rashtrapati Bhavan on October 15, marking his birth anniversary as a Day of Scientific Inspiration and National Remembrance. This solemn tribute highlights the nation’s respect for Dr. Kalam’s contributions to science, education, and national development.
A Movement Beyond an Event
During the inauguration, Dr. Sheikh Saleem stated that “Space Mission–2025 is not merely a programme but a movement to realise Dr. Kalam’s dream of a technologically self-reliant and progressive India.” He urged the youth to think beyond conventional boundaries, develop curiosity, and innovate for the nation’s advancement.
Representatives from the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam International Foundation emphasized that the symposium embodies Dr. Kalam’s lifelong mission to ignite young minds and nurture the spirit of discovery. They said, “Space Mission–2025 is designed to encourage India’s next generation of scientists to think creatively, work collaboratively, and lead the country toward global leadership in space research.”
Bridging Academia, Industry and Innovation
The symposium features panel discussions, technical sessions, and interactive exhibits led by ISRO scientists, professors, innovators, and research scholars. Key themes include satellite technology, sustainable space innovation, AI in space research, and India’s future missions. These discussions aim to strengthen collaboration between academia and the scientific community, ensuring that innovation translates into practical, impactful solutions.
Empowering the Next Generation
Special emphasis has been placed on student participation and hands-on learning, allowing young innovators to present their ideas before experts and policymakers. The foundation’s coordinators mentioned that many student projects showcased at the symposium could later be supported for further development through institutional partnerships and incubation programmes.
As India moves ahead in its ambitious space journey—ranging from lunar and solar missions to interplanetary research and satellite-based innovation—initiatives like Space Mission–2025 reaffirm the nation’s dedication to Dr. Kalam’s dream of transforming India into a global knowledge and technology powerhouse.
Ultimately, the three-day symposium stands as a tribute to the People’s President, inspiring the next generation to carry forward his vision — a scientifically awakened, technologically empowered, and self-reliant India.
