India has achieved its best-ever results at the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) 2026, with every member of its four-person team securing gold medals. This notable success places India in a joint top position with China, Vietnam, and an individual participant from Russia. The Olympiad took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from July 10 to 19.

A total of 363 talented students from 93 countries took part in this year’s prestigious competition. This marks India’s 27th appearance at the International Chemistry Olympiad, and it stands as the country’s most remarkable performance to date.

The gold medal winners from India are Debadatta Priyadarshi from Bhubaneswar, Odisha; Harshit Singhal from Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab; Kabeer Chhillar from Delhi; and Sandeep Kuchi from Hyderabad, Telangana.

Leadership and Mentorship of the Indian Team

Prof. Subhajit Bandyopadhyay from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata served as the Head Mentor for the team, while Dr. Indrani Das Sen from the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE) took on the role of mentor. This leadership team played a crucial role in guiding the young chemists throughout their preparation and participation.

The contingent also included Scientific Observers Dr. Anubendu Adhikary from IIT Kharagpur and Dr. Jayasree Gopalakrishnan from NES Ratnam College in Mumbai. Their support proved essential in enriching the learning experience for the students.

The successful outcome at the Olympiad reflects the commitment and hard work shown by both the mentors and the students during their training and assessments leading up to the event.

History and Significance of the International Chemistry Olympiad

The IChO is globally recognised as the premier competition for secondary school students in chemistry. It has been held annually since 1968, creating a platform for the brightest young minds in chemistry to demonstrate their skills through both theoretical and practical examinations.

India has been participating in this distinguished event since 1999. The Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), which operates under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), is responsible for the national selection and training programme. Previous to this year’s event, Indian students have won a total of 31 gold, 55 silver, and 18 bronze medals at the Olympiad.

In 2025, Indian participants achieved commendable results, securing two gold medals and two silver medals. The achievement of four gold medals at the current edition marks a significant milestone for India, leading to a joint first-place finish in the overall results.

Recognition of Support from Various Organisations

The Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education expressed gratitude towards the National Steering Committee on Science Olympiads, teacher organisations, and resource persons related to the Chemistry Olympiad Cell. Their collective support was integral to the success of the national selection and training programme.

Additionally, HBCSE acknowledged the financial backing received from several governmental bodies, including the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and the Ministry of Education (MoE). This support underscores the significant investment in nurturing future scientific talent in India.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share