The Indian contingent at the 35th International Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2024 has made headlines with their outstanding performance, showcasing the nation's prowess in biological sciences on a global stage. Held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from July 7 to July 13, 2024, the event drew participation from 305 students representing 80 countries.

Leaders and Observers

The team was led by distinguished mentors: Prof. Sasikumar Menon from TDM Lab, Mumbai, and Dr. Mayuri Rege from Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), TIFR. Supporting them were Scientific Observers Dr. Rajesh Patkar from IIT Bombay and Dr. Devesh Suthar from M. S. University, Baroda.

IBO 2024 featured rigorous assessments including four 1.5-hour experimental examinations and two 3.25-hour theory examinations. The practical tests covered a spectrum of topics such as Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics. Noteworthy challenges included sheep eyeball dissections, plasmid purification, and protein quantitation.

Training and Preparation

Acknowledgement goes to the dedicated teachers and mentors across India who diligently trained the team during orientation and pre-departure camps at HBCSE. These efforts were crucial in preparing the students for the intellectually demanding tests based on cutting-edge research in fields like plant biology, cell biology, ethology, and biosystematics.

India's robust support system for Olympiad training, led by the National Steering Committee and various teacher organizations, deserves special mention. The Government of India's funding agencies have consistently backed the Olympiad program, with HBCSE serving as the national nodal center for nurturing scientific talent through initiatives that bridge local and international scientific communities.

Celebrating Excellence: Medal Winners

The highlight of India's success at IBO 2024 was the stellar performance of its participants:

- Vedant Sakre from Mumbai, Maharashtra, clinched the prestigious GOLD medal.

- Ishan Pednekar from Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, secured a SILVER medal.

- Shrijith Sivakumar from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, also earned a SILVER medal.

- Yashashwi Kumar from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, rounded up the achievements with another SILVER medal.

Fostering Scientific Excellence

The Indian Olympiad program, which spans disciplines from Astronomy to Physics, aims to cultivate excellence in science and mathematics among pre-university students. Its multi-stage selection process ensures that only the best represent India at international forums like the IBO, where they compete with peers from around the world.

The triumph of India's team at IBO 2024 reflects a promising future for biological sciences education in the country, inspiring generations of aspiring scientists to aim for the stars.

International Biology Olympiad, IBO 2024, GOLD medal, SILVER medals, Indian team, Astana Kazakhstan, biology excellence