Olympiad Champions Honoured at Red Fort on 80th Independence Day

Young Indian medallists from the 2026 International Science and Mathematical Olympiads were honoured as Special Guests at the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort, witnessing Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoist the national flag and address the nation.

The recognition celebrated India’s Yuva Shakti and the contribution of young scientific and mathematical talent to the country’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. The honour came in a year marking 150 years of Vande Mataram.

Indian students delivered an exceptional performance at the 2026 International Olympiads, winning 12 Gold and seven Silver medals across Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics. Their presence at the national ceremony highlighted the country’s sustained efforts to identify and nurture talented students from an early age.

At the centre of this national effort is the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), a National Centre of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and an aided institution under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). HBCSE serves as the national nodal centre for India’s Science and Mathematical Olympiad programmes.

The programme follows a multi-stage process involving selection, orientation, training and mentoring, bringing together scientists, teachers, academic institutions and subject experts from across the country. The DAE has supported this ecosystem through its backing of TIFR and HBCSE.

During their visit to New Delhi, the Olympiad achievers interacted with Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, DAE and Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission. Mohanty said their recognition reflected the curiosity, perseverance and excellence of India’s young minds.

The students also interacted with Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, and visited the National War Memorial and Pradhan Mantri Sangrahalaya.

The DAE congratulated the students, their parents, teachers, mentors, team leaders and scientific observers, saying their achievements reflected India’s growing capacity to nurture talent and compete at the highest global level.