Bhubaneswar: Bringing national recognition to Odisha, Soumyashree Thanapati, a Class X student of Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya (OAV), Jharmunda, in Loisingha block of Balangir district, has secured first position at the National Science Seminar 2026 in New Delhi.

Organised by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) under the Union Ministry of Culture, the national-level competition was held at the National Science Centre in the national capital.

Soumyashree emerged at the top after competing with students from across the country. She impressed the judges with her presentation on the theme, “Indian Energy Basket 2047: Prospects and Challenges.”

Her achievement marks a significant milestone for Odisha, with a student from the state securing first position at the national seminar after a gap of 13 years.

The accomplishment reflects the student’s hard work and the support of her teachers and mentors. The Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya Sangathan (OAVS), the principal and teachers of OAV Jharmunda, the Balangir district administration and the Regional Science Centre, Odisha, contributed to her preparation and success.

Her science teacher, mentor and parents also played an important role in guiding her throughout the journey.

OAVS congratulated Soumyashree on her achievement and wished her success in her future academic endeavours. Her performance has brought pride to her school and district while highlighting Odisha’s presence in the field of science education.