JAMMU, MAY 30: The Divisional Office Jammu of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), J&K organized the Divisional Level 53rd Rajya Stariya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshani (RSBVP) 2025–26 at Kisan Bhawan Jammu under the inspiring theme “STEM for Viksit and Atamnirbhar Bharat.” The programme also featured an awareness seminar on “Reducing Plastic Pollution.” The event was organized under the guidance of Director, SCERT J&K and Director School Education Jammu Dr. Naseem Javaid Choudhary.
The exhibition aimed at fostering scientific temperament, creativity, innovation and experiential learning among students through diverse thematic areas. The central theme, “STEM for Viksit and Atamnirbhar Bharat,” encompassed sub-themes including Sustainable Agriculture, Waste Management and Alternatives to Plastics, Green Energy, Emerging Technologies, Recreational Mathematical Modelling, Health and Hygiene and Water Conservation and Management. The exhibits prepared by students reflected practical applications of science and mathematics in addressing contemporary societal and environmental challenges.
A total of 1,350 innovative models from 98 educational zones were initially showcased at the zonal level, out of which 325 exhibits were shortlisted for district-level competitions. Finally, 54 outstanding exhibits qualified for the divisional-level exhibition organized by SCERT Jammu.
The exhibition featured participation of 92 students accompanied by 56 escort teachers representing different districts of Jammu Division. The innovative models displayed by the students reflected scientific creativity, practical problem-solving abilities and awareness regarding sustainable development and emerging technologies.
The participants were formally welcomed by the Joint Director, SCERT J&K, while a detailed concept note highlighting the objectives and significance of the exhibition was presented by Dr. Rohini, Senior Academic Officer, SCERT Divisional Office Jammu.
Addressing the gathering, Joint Director, SCERT J&K Dr. Sindhu Kapoor emphasized the importance of nurturing scientific temperament, innovation and creativity among students. She highlighted that such platforms encourage learners to connect classroom learning with real-life challenges and contribute meaningfully towards the vision of a “Viksit and Atamnirbhar Bharat” through inquiry-based learning, environmental awareness and problem-solving skills.
The event was further enriched by the keynote address of the chief guest, faculty member, Department of Education in Science and Mathematics (DESM), NCERT, New Delhi, Prof. C. V. Shimray. He lauded the innovative spirit and scientific aptitude demonstrated by the students.
Ms. Manisha, Personnel Officer Directorate of School Education Jammu, Dr. O.P Vidhyarthi, Sahitya Akademi Awardee, Retired Indian Forest Service Officer with 54 books on different aspects of Biodiversity and Dr. Karuna Nidhi, Deputy Director, Farmer Training Centre, Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare Department, graced the occasion as guests of honour.
An expert talk on the seminar theme “Reducing Plastic Pollution” was delivered by Rajesh Hali, Senior Academic Officer, SCERT Divisional Office Jammu, who emphasized the urgent need for environmental consciousness, sustainable practices and collective responsibility towards minimizing plastic waste.
The exhibits were evaluated by an eminent jury comprising Dr. Anupama Pandotra, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Government Degree College R.S. Pura; Dr. Renu Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Government Degree College R.S. Pura; Dr. Deep Kumar Bangotra, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science, GDC Akhnoor; Dr. Ram Dayal, Senior Assistant Professor, GDC Marh and Anamika Vaid, Academic Officer, SCERT Divisional Office Jammu. The jury members appreciated the originality, scientific approach and societal relevance reflected in the student exhibits aligned with the identified themes.
During the valedictory session the results of the exhibition were formally declared, wherein three outstanding exhibits each from the seven sub-themes were felicitated for their exceptional creativity, scientific temperament and innovative approach. Out of the 54 exhibits showcased at the divisional level, 21 exhibits were shortlisted for participation at the national level in accordance with NCERT guidelines. The valedictory session was moderated by Manisha chun.
The proceedings concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Monika Dogra, Program Coordinator, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the SCERT administration, distinguished guests, jury members, experts escort teachers, participants, media representatives, organizing committees, support staff at Kissan Kendra and the entire SCERT team for their dedicated efforts and cooperation in making the event a grand success.
