Kolkata, Sep 12 (IANS): Over 40 state-run schools and universities, mostly from rural areas of West Bengal, have put up educative models and posters to highlight the importance of innovation in agriculture at the state student youth science fair here.

School and university students from 20 districts are competing in model-making and poster contests at the two-day fair going on at the Netaji Indoor Stadium.

"Winners from district level science fairs also participated. Prizes will be given out today (Friday) at a valedictory session. The aim is to secure active participation of students in science," an official of state youth services department told IANS.

The theme this year centres on "Innovation in Agriculture" with topics like water harvesting, solar energy, conservation of natural resources forming the crux of the projects submitted by students.

Organised by the state youth services department with departments of school and higher education, West Bengal State Council of Science and Technology and Birla Industrial and Technological Museum, the fair will conclude Friday.

Posters and demonstrations in both Bengali and English are being showcased.