9.1.1 India International Trade Fair 2000 (IITF), Delhi

The IITF is one of the most popular trade fairs organized by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) every year at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. During 2000-2001, IITF 2000 was held from November 14-27, 2000 at New Delhi, in which the Department participated. Several exhibit like panels, dioramas, models, translights etc., were showcased. A multimedia interactive presentation developed on CD covering the entire gamut of the Department's programmes viz., Antarctic Expeditions and Polar Science, Marine Living Resources, Marine Non Living Resources, Coastal and Marine Area Management, Ocean Observation and Information Services, Marine Research and Capacity Building, etc. was also made, besides film shows on DOD's activities. A quiz software especially designed for young visitors with multiple choice objective questions accompanied by video clips activated by touch of hand on computer monitor was a favourite draw with the children. Mementos like bookmarks, key chains, brochures on the Department, etc were distributed amongst visitors to the Department stall.

9.1.2 Vigyan Darshanam (Maha Kumbh Mela), Allahabad

From 14th January 2001, the Department took part in 'Vigyan Darshanam', a Science and Technology exhibition organised by the Uttar Pradesh State Government during the 42-day Maha Kumbh Mela, drawing about 30 million devotees to Allahabad. In order to exhibit the Department's activities topical panels were prepared in Hindi so as to cater to the masses thronging the fair from the rural heartland of India. The message was communicated by depicting India's achievements in Antarctica. In addition, a film on the Department's activities was shown through a LCD multimedia projector.