The Indian student team has achieved remarkable success at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad (IESO) in Beijing, China, securing three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals. The competition, held from August 8-16, 2024, saw participants from 35 countries, with India standing out for its stellar performance across multiple categories.
The four-member Indian team, consisting of students from Gujarat, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, showcased their knowledge and skills in the prestigious 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad. They won medals in all three competition categories: Theory and Practical, Earth System Project, and International Team Field Investigation. This significant achievement highlights India’s growing expertise in earth sciences on the global stage.
The International Earth Sciences Olympiad, established in 2003, is a global competition designed to promote awareness and understanding of earth sciences among secondary school students. The event in Beijing this year saw participation from 35 countries, with 32 teams advancing to the finals. India’s consistent performance in IESO since 2007, including hosting the 10th edition in Mysore, underscores its commitment to excellence in this field.
“We are proud of our young earth science wizards and achievers,” said Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, congratulating the winners.
The IESO is part of the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ REACHOUT (Research, Education, Training, and Outreach) scheme, which aims to enhance understanding and interest in earth system sciences. The Ministry also supports the Indian National Earth Science Olympiad (INESO), a precursor to the IESO, where top-performing students are selected to represent India at the international level.
The success of the Indian team at the IESO is expected to inspire more students across the country to pursue earth sciences. The REACHOUT and PRITHVI schemes, which support these Olympiads, play a crucial role in fostering talent and enhancing India’s capabilities in addressing global environmental challenges.
While India’s success at the IESO is commendable, there is still a need to increase awareness and participation in earth sciences among a broader range of students. Expanding outreach programs and enhancing curriculum integration could help address this gap.
Dr. Jagvir Singh, Scientist G & Adviser at the Ministry of Earth Sciences, emphasized the importance of the IESO in fostering international collaboration and solution-focused discussions on critical issues like climate change and natural disasters.
India’s impressive performance at the 17th IESO highlights the nation’s growing prowess in earth sciences. With continued support from initiatives like REACHOUT and PRITHVI, India is well-positioned to contribute significantly to global environmental solutions.
