Bengaluru, Nov 5 (IANS): Nobel laureates and eminent scientists will address the 103rd edition of the Indian Science Congress (ISC) to be held at the University of Mysuru (UoM) from January 3 to 7, 2016.

"It is a great honour bestowed on the UoM to host the prestigious 103rd Indian Science Congress," said university vice chancellor K.S. Rangappa on Wednesday.

"With nearly 20,000 brilliant brains converging at the Science Congress, I strongly believe that a roadmap for the indigenous science and technology will be drawn more specifically to meet the societal expectation of our country," added Rangappa.

As customary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the ISC, themed this time on "Science and Technology for Indigenous Development in India".

As many as five Nobel laureates have confirmed they would deliver "Hightlight Talks" at the ISC while leading research Institutes, public sector undertakings, universities and industry will also mark their presence.

The event will house a 'Pride of India' science mega expo where 450 top institutions will showcase cutting edge innovations while a 'Hall of Pride' will be dedicated to late scientist and former president of India, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

A special pavilion will be dedicated for Karnataka stalwart and Bharat Ratna late M. Visvesvaraya.

Returning to Karnataka after a gap of 13 years, the five-day congress will have plenary sessions, genesis symposium, Vigyan Jyot, vision talks, women and children science congress and young scientist's award among others.

Vigyan Jyot (Flame of Knowledge) is special attraction and will be lit on all the five days of the congress.