Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the Global Young Scientists Conference at IIT Hyderabad, uniting young leaders from 60+ countries to advance science for global change. The week-long event promotes ethical, inclusive research and collaboration on sustainability, health, innovation, and human-centric development.
The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) has emerged as the global hub for young scientific minds as it hosts the Global Young Scientists Conference and the Annual General Meeting of the Global Young Academy (GYA) from June 8 to 14, 2025. This prestigious, week-long international event, held for the first time in India, was formally inaugurated by Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, in a significant milestone for Indian science diplomacy and youth-led innovation.
The conference is organized by IIT Hyderabad in collaboration with the Global Young Academy (GYA), the Indian National Young Academy of Science (INYAS), and the Indian National Science Academy (INSA). With over 135 international delegates from 60 countries and 65 national delegates, the conference showcases a deeply inclusive and collaborative spirit. Themed “Confluence of Visionaries: Empowering Science for Global Change,” the event aims to foster dialogue, knowledge exchange, and solution-oriented research among young leaders in the scientific community.
In his keynote address, Dharmendra Pradhan extended a warm welcome to the global participants and congratulated the 30 new members inducted into the Global Young Academy during the event. He praised the GYA’s decision to select India and IIT Hyderabad as hosts, describing the conference as more than a congregation of young researchers—it represents hope, purpose, and a shared destiny.
Minister Pradhan contextualized the event within India’s global scientific vision, emphasizing the timeless Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — One Earth, One Family, One Future. He stressed that this worldview isn’t a political slogan, but a way of life embedded deeply in India’s ethical, empathetic, and equitable approach to science. He remarked, “Science must be shared. Partnerships, not patents, must shape the future.”
India hosts Global Young Academy meeting for the first time at IITHPradhan linked India’s active global scientific engagements with this foundational value system. He cited India’s key international initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE, and the India Science and Research Fellowship as reflections of India’s broader ethos of “Vishwa Bandhutva” — global friendship through science.
He highlighted the urgency and responsibility of the current moment, calling it the most opportune time for scientists, policymakers, and innovators to unite in building resilient ecosystems and sustainable solutions. He expressed confidence that the conference would become a meaningful platform for channeling science in the service of humanity. Calling for a human-centric, collaborative, and empathetic approach, he urged young scientists to contribute toward the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by prioritizing innovation that uplifts the vulnerable and preserves global well-being.
In a symbolic gesture promoting environmental consciousness, Pradhan and other dignitaries planted saplings at the IIT Hyderabad campus as part of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative. Referring to the act of planting a tree in honor of one’s mother as a gesture of love and commitment to sustainability, he encouraged students across the country to lead this green movement. “A tree planted in the name of a mother is a small act with a deep message and big impact,” he said.
The conference features a series of dynamic thematic sessions that underscore its interdisciplinary approach. Key focus areas include:
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Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles
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Health and Nutrition for Global Wellness
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Industry 5.0 and the Human-Machine Interface
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Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Global Landscape
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These sessions aim to foster global partnerships and devise innovative, inclusive strategies that will help address pressing challenges such as climate change, food security, health equity, and technological disruption.
As the week progresses, the Global Young Scientists Conference is expected to serve as a launchpad for impactful international collaborations, uniting emerging scientific leaders under a shared commitment to using knowledge for global good. It not only celebrates India’s growing role in international science diplomacy but also showcases the transformative potential of young scientists in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.
