Std X – Visit to Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre for Closing Ceremony of IOAA 2025-26

Balmohan Vidyamandir was invited by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India and Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBSCE-TIFR) for the Closing Ceremony of IOAA 2025 on August 21, 2025 (Thursday).

The Closing Ceremony of IOAA 2025 was held at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, graced by eminent dignitaries and scientists. Distinguished attendees included:

• Dr. Anil Kakodkar, Chancellor, Homi Bhabha National Institute
• Prof. Dipankar Banerjee, Director, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST)
• Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)

Dr. Kakodkar, the Guest of Honour, in his speech, encouraged the students to remain curious and to stay committed to pushing the boundaries of science.

Prof. Banerjee made the students aware of India’s commendable capabilities in space science, pointing to missions like Aditya-L1, India’s first space-based solar observatory, and many more missions facilitating space exploration, not just for India but to the international community at large.

It is worth mentioning that the Closing Ceremony was not just about medals and awards in Astronomy and Astrophysics, the students from around the world also got to experience India’s cultural richness through mesmerising performances celebrating art, and music. This cultural exchange added a unique dimension to the scientific gathering.

By attending the Closing Ceremony of IOAA 2025, our students not only got a unique opportunity to experience and appreciate the state of the art facilities in the auditorium of The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre but also got an understanding of the level at which such global events are conducted.

The students gathered for the event were thrilled and gave a thunderous applause when the Indian delegates won four gold medals and a silver medal at IOAA 2025.

The event concluded on a happy note with the understanding that the process of scientific discovery is a continual flight of wonder.

We sincerely hope that our students draw inspiration and make our country proud one day.