Bhubaneswar: Over 400 students from Classes IX to XII from schools across the state capital and nearby areas participated in the ICMR-SHINE (Science & Health Innovation for the Nextgen Explorers) Initiative 2026 organised by the ICMR-National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) here on Tuesday.The programme was part of a nationwide outreach initiative being conducted across 28 ICMR institutes and field units to encourage school students to take an interest in science and biomedical research. The day-long event offered students a first-hand glimpse into the world of scientific research through laboratory visits, live demonstrations and exhibitions.The programme was inaugurated virtually by ICMR director general Rajiv Bahl, who highlighted the organisation’s contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Encouraging students to think like scientists, he said research and innovation play a crucial role in developing solutions that improve people’s lives.Addressing the gathering, Sanghamitra Pati, additional director general, ICMR, and director of ICMR-NIHR Bhubaneswar, urged students to make the most of the opportunity by observing, questioning and engaging with researchers. She stressed that scientific research extends beyond laboratories and has the potential to transform public health outcomes.A major attraction of the programme was the guided laboratory tour, where students explored research facilities and learnt about ongoing biomedical studies. They also watched films on Covaxin’s development, drone-based medical delivery systems and epidemic preparedness initiatives.
