Intel help for Indian students to turn innovators

New Delhi, Feb 22 (UNI) The government today joined hands with the Intel Corporation to popularise science among school children and help them become innovators.

Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal signed an agreement with Intel South Asia's Amar Babu and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)to launch the 'Iris' (Initiative for Research and Innovation in Science) programme in 50,000 schools in the country.

'Iris', which begins in March, will initially involve inviting scientific projects from children. A screening committee of Intel and the Department of Science and Technology will prepare a shortlist of the projects, which will be exhibited at the 'National Innovation Fair' to be held at the Pragati Maidan in December.

''Awards will be presented to students and some of them will also get the chance to visit the United States to interact with fellow students there,'' said Mr Babu.

The winners at the 'National Innovation Fair' will represent India at international science fairs abroad. 'Iris' programme is targeting 5.5 lakh students in 50,000 schools, he said.

''We want to foster creativity among our children, which will be the springboard of future technology,'' said Mr Sibal.

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