India achieved its best-ever performance at the 58th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) 2026, with all four members of its team winning gold medals and securing a joint Rank 1 position alongside China, Vietnam and the Individual Participant from Russia. The prestigious global competition was held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from July 10 to 19, bringing together 363 students from 93 countries.
The achievement marks a significant milestone in India’s participation at the International Chemistry Olympiad. According to the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), which coordinates India’s participation in international science Olympiads, this was the country’s 27th appearance at the competition and its strongest performance to date. The result highlights the growing excellence of Indian students in international scientific contests.
The four Indian students who earned gold medals were Debadatta Priyadarshi from Bhubaneswar, Odisha; Harshit Singhal from Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab; Kabeer Chhillar from Delhi; and Sandeep Kuchi from Hyderabad, Telangana. Their performance placed India among the top-performing nations in one of the world’s most competitive chemistry-based academic competitions.
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The Indian contingent was guided by Head Mentor Prof. Subhajit Bandyopadhyay from IISER Kolkata and Mentor Dr. Indrani Das Sen from HBCSE. The team also received support from Scientific Observers Dr. Anubendu Adhikary from IIT Kharagpur and Dr. Jayasree Gopalakrishnan from NES Ratnam College, Mumbai, who contributed to the students’ preparation and participation.
Following the announcement of the results, HBCSE congratulated the students and mentors through its official social media channels. The institute also acknowledged the efforts of teachers, mentors, the National Steering Committee on Science Olympiads and members of the Chemistry Olympiad Cell for their support throughout the training process. It further recognised the contributions of the Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Science and Technology and Ministry of Education.
India’s success at the International Chemistry Olympiad 2026 reflects the country’s expanding presence in global science competitions and showcases the achievements of its young scientific talent. The historic result is expected to encourage greater participation and interest among students pursuing excellence in science and research.
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