KMV- the only Anveshika Centre of Punjab leads the torch of experiential learning and innovation across the state

Kanya Maha Vidyalaya (Autonomous), the only Anveshika Centre in Punjab, hosted the Anveshika Bharat Yatra 2025. The event, an initiative of the National Anveshika Network of India (NANI) under the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), celebrated science and experiential learning. The Physics Mashal Yatra, led by Padma Shri Professor H.C. Verma, began in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, on May 28, 2025, and has since traveled through Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Chandigarh. A GPS-enabled Physics Mashal accompanies the journey, symbolising the spread of scientific temper. KMV led the Punjab leg of the yatra, receiving the torch with a vibrant cultural welcome that featured traditional Dhol and Giddha. Over 500 students from various schools participated in the event, which began with the Mashal Handover Ceremony and included a Science Anthem and the release of KMV’s Science Newsletter. A graceful classical dance was also performed by KMV students. The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Chief Guest Prof. Ajay Bansal from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar NIT Jalandhar, who praised KMV’s efforts in physics education. Guest of Honour Dr. Satyanarayana Veera Venkata V, a scientist from IUAC New Delhi, encouraged students to pursue science with curiosity. Principal Prof. Atima Sharma Dwivedi highlighted KMV’s 140-year legacy in women’s education and its role in science outreach in Punjab. She further maintained that this milestone achievement is not only a matter of pride for KMV but also a significant step forward in promoting scientific education and research in Punjab. It reflects the institution’s continuous pursuit of excellence in education and its commitment to empowering the next generation of scientists.Several IAPT dignitaries, including President Prof. P.K. Ahluwalia and Regional President Prof. Jaswinder Singh, also joined the session virtually, commending KMV for its leadership in the regional launch of the national scientific movement. Mrs. Minaxi Syal, IAPT RC-02 Vice President, joined online from the United States and expressed her appreciation for KMV’s role in inspiring young minds. The event featured live physics demonstrations with models created by KMV, such as the Rain Water Alarm System, Plasma Globe, and Newton’s Cradle, which captivated the students. A creative “Selfie Point” was also a popular attraction. A key highlight was the interactive workshop led by Prof. M.S. Marwaha, Anveshika Coordinator, Chandigarh, who used engaging demonstrations on topics like Wave Interference and Air Pressure to make textbook physics understandable and exciting. KMV will continue to lead the yatra across Punjab conducting hands-on physics workshops at institutions like IISER, Mohali, Army Public School, Beas, and Dev Samaj College at Ferozepur. The yatra will also visit various institutions in Bathinda, Dina nagar, Hoshiarpur, Talwara and Dhuri. Upon the conclusion of the Punjab leg, the torch will be handed over to the next Anveshika Centre in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Principal Prof. (Dr.) Atima Sharma Dwivedi reaffirmed KMV’s commitment to fostering scientific learning and excellence, reinforcing its role as a leader in educational innovation and a torchbearer of scientific progress in Punjab.Dr. Surbhi Sharma, Assistant Professor in the Physics Department, was honored with the IAPT Dinabandhu Sahu Memorial Award – National Best Physics Teacher Award 2025 for her contributions to physics education on this occasion.