Human have innate curiosity about the world leading to scientific inquiry. Early human observed nature, leading to discoveries in agriculture, medicine, and astronomy. Over time structural scientific, methods developed, refining our understanding of the Universe. From fire and the wheel to modern AI and biotechnology, scientific advancements have defined human progress. Science and technology continue to shape human civilization by solving challenges and improving the quality of life. It has empowered healthcare, communication, transportation and daily life, making civilizations more advanced and interconnected.
In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) asked the Government of India (GOI) to declare 28th February as National Science Day (NSD). This was done to honour Sir C.V Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect and to recognize the efforts of other Indian scientists in the field of Science. The Government of India decided to designate February 28 as National Science Day to commemorate the discovery of ‘Raman Effect in February 28, 1928’, which was the greatest discovery of that time. The first national Science Day was celebrated on 28th February 1987. Since then, it has been observed in schools, colleges, universities, and other research centres across India. The main intention behind the Science Day celebration is to spot budding scientists among students and provide all the necessary encouragement for them to bloom. To encourage more people to talk about science, NCSTC introduced the national Science Popularization Awards, which reward those who help spread knowledge about science. The day is celebrated for the ground breaking discovery of the Raman Effect revolutionized the understanding of light scattering. It is celebrated in the concept of promoting scientific awareness, encourage innovation, and highlight the importance of research and technology.Each year, on this day of National Science Day brings together Scientists, students, educators, and policy makers to discuss advancements in science and their role in shaping a better future. His ground breaking research in light scattering earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Indian scientist to receive the prestigious international award. The celebration serves as a tribute to Indian scientists contributions and aims to inspire innovation and scientific temperament across the country.
The Raman Effect is a scientific phenomenon discovered by Sir, C.V Raman on 28th February, 1928. It refers to the scattering of light when it passes through a transparent substance, such as liquid or gas. Some of the scattered light changes its wavelength due to energy exchange with the molecules in the medium. The shift in wavelength is known as the Raman shift, and it helps scientists study the composition and properties of the materials. Raman Effect is used in Raman Spectroscopy, a technique that helps identify substances based on their molecular structure. It remains a crucial concept in scientific research, with applications in medicine, material science, space exploration and others.
This year-2025, the day will be celebrated on the theme ‘Empowering Indian Youth for Global leadership in Science and Innovation for VIKSIT Bharat’. This theme sets the direction for discussions, seminars, and activities held nationwide, including celebrations at various universities, colleges, IITs, schools, and other academic institutions. As we observe National Science Day -2025, it is important to reflect on India’s scientific achievements and its ongoing journey toward global excellence in research and technology. Today, national Science Day acknowledge the contributions of not only Sir C.V Raman, but also other popular renowned scientists like Homi Jahanagir Bhabha, Vikram Sarabhai, A.P.J Abdul Kalam, J.C. Bose, and many others who have shaped the nation’s progress in Physics, Space science, Nuclear technology, and Medicine.
On this occasion, Prof. Nongmaithem Rajmuhon Singh, former Vice-Chancellor, Dhanamanjari University and who did extensive research in the field of Physical Chemistry expressed that since childhood days children should be inspire to be in the field of science. Inspiration cum awareness is a must for the students. The role of teachers should be beyond figures, data and beyond textbooks. Teaching should be incorporated with inspirations and knowledge beyond syllabi. He remind again about the importance of quotation once said by Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar that simplicity, hardwork, and perseverance are the true qualities of a scientist. He also expressed that Sir C.V Raman, Homi Jahanagir Bhabha, Vikram Sarabhai, must be the role model of the young generations and they must be inspired from their work culture and thinking. He pointed out the importance of Eastern Philosophy, Indian knowledge system, and Gurukul in corporation with NEP-2020. He also remind about the contribution of Indian mathematician namely ‘S. Ramanujan’ in the jungle of Mathematics in his short duration of life. He opined that the main objectives of this day is not only to commemorate a significant breakthrough but also to promote awareness about the importance of science in our daily life, encourage young minds to explore careers in science and technology, recognize and appreciate scientific research and innovation.
India has made significant strides in space exploration (ISRO); Medical sciences, and renewable energy technologies. The day serves as a reminder of the need for continued research, innovation, and investment in Science and Technology. Scientific advancements play a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and sustainable energy solutions. By celebrating this day, India reinforces its societal progress. Some of the renowned Nobel Laureates in science are namely Hargobind Khorana (1986, Medicine); Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar (1986, Physics); and Venkataraman Ramakrishnan (2009, Chemistry). Indian is still striving for more Nobel Prizes in Science and Technology, through world-class research funding in the institutions like IISc, IITs, ISRO, AIIMS etc.
In Manipur National Science Day is also celebrated at various academic institutions and departments by organizing various activities. Events on NSD often highlight local innovations in agriculture, herbal medicine, and sustainable living, showcasing how Science can enhance traditional practices. Today, many scientists belong to Manipur are part of the successful research works and scientific progress conducted in India and abroad.
National Science Day is not just about celebrating past achievements but also about reflecting on the role of science in shaping a better world. In today’s rapidly changing technological landscape, it serves as a reminder that scientific progress must be inclusive, ethical and aimed at the betterment of humanity. The day must also be a platform to recognize and promote the contributions of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), inspiring more women to pursue careers in Science and Technology. It is an important occasion to celebrate scientific achievements, inspiring young minds, and address local challenges through innovation. The celebration is also a part of India’s long-term Amrit Kaal strategy (2022-2047) to establish India as a global economic powerhouse and improve citizen’s quality of life. It is a part of the campaign aims to transform India into a developed nation by 2047 i.e VIKSIT BHARAT, marking 100 years of independent India.
