Odisha student wins national science seminar in New Delhi
Soumyashree Thanapati secured the top position at the National Science Seminar 2026, receiving a scholarship of Rs 48,000.
Soumyashree Thanapati, a Class 10 student from Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya in Jharmunda, won the National Science Seminar 2026 on October 30. The event took place at the National Science Centre in New Delhi.
The seminar, organised by the National Council of Science Museums under the Union Ministry of Culture, featured participants from 34 states and Union Territories. This victory marks the first time an Odisha student has secured the top position at this national competition in 13 years.
The theme for this year was ‘Indian Energy Basket 2047: Prospects and Challenges.’ Students presented views on India's future energy requirements, alternative sources, and technological innovation.
A five-member panel of experts from scientific and academic institutions chose the winner and nine runners-up. The judges evaluated the participants based on their presentation skills, ideas, scientific understanding, and subject knowledge.
Thanapati received a trophy, a certificate, and a scholarship of Rs 48,000. Nine runners-up from various states and Union Territories, including Maharashtra, Bihar, and West Bengal, each received a trophy, a certificate, and a scholarship of Rs 24,000.
In total, Rs 2.64 lakh was distributed as scholarships among the winners and runners-up. The National Science Seminar has been held annually since 1982.