It’s neither a Hollywood sci-fi nor prime time TV soap, but Shaastra 2016 is a five-day techno-blockbuster that officially began at the IIT-campus on Friday. The annual razzmatazz, which was supposed to take place from January 2-5, 2016, was postponed due to relief works being carried out for the families affected by the floods.
It is a medley of scientific exhibitions, competitions, lectures, panel discussions, product demos and workshops on the emerging trends in cutting-edge technology, science and novel engineering designs. Shaastra 2016 holds the distinction of being the first such event in the world to be ISO 9001:2000 certified for implementing a quality management system. While regular events will aim to entertain visitors, there are several new additions this year, most of which is aimed at shock-and-awe.
For instance, Pledge A Book is one of the new entrants. It’s a campaign to give back to society and create an impact in the fields of education and literacy. It aims to collect books which are donated by patrons of Shaastra, and use them to set up libraries for poor students. Maker Summit is an eclectic mix of events including lectures, symposiums, panel discussions, workshops and a product design challenge. IIT-M Fummer Fellowship is unique to this year. The winners of specific events at will be awarded an opportunity to work as research interns at IIT-M.
Giving a broad perspective on the schedule of events, Yash Dikshit, one of the organisers, says techno-cultural shows in the evenings will be one of the major highlights at Shaastra 2016. “Stunt performers from Ukraine and France will regale the gathering. Apart from this, Envisage, the first student-organised techno cultural event in the country, will be bolder, bigger and trendier this year with the use of high-tech gizmos by students,” he says, and informs City Express that innovative designs in engineering will be presented at the Maker Summit.
“It all boils down to what you are going to launch or design. The workshops and lectures will turn the spotlight on new products and engineering solutions,” he explains. According to the organising committee, Shaastra 2016 is expected to have a footfall of 40,000 students on all five days, mostly from the south zone.