Speaking on the occasion, the CM said that Bhubaneswar has emerged as the knowledge hub of eastern India. Scientific progress is important for nation’s growth, he opined.

“Theme for this year’s NCSC– ‘Science, Technology and Innovation for a Clean, Green and Healthy Nation’ is apt as environment and health have emerged as two major concerns of our time,” Patnaik said.

“My government is focussing a lot on development of scientific temper amongst our children through organisation of different science-based programmes at various levels. We are establishing science parks and planetariums at district-level to create interest among children in various aspects of science and technology,” he added.

The annual event, which provides a platform to children to showcase their creativity and ability to innovate, will showcase technical sessions, exhibitions and discussions.

Children in the age group of 10-17 years including school students and those who are not part of formal education besides differently-abled children will attend the event supported by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC), Government of India.

Children from 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and five Gulf countries will also attend the event. It will conclude on December 31.