National Science Day 2025 (February 28)
- Honouring innovation and scientific temper -

Dr Pangambam Sendash Singh *

Science and technology play an important role in shaping the progress of any Nation. Recognizing the significance of scientific advancement and innovation, India celebrates National Science Day on February 28 every year. This day commemorates the remarkable discovery of the Raman Effect by the renowned physicist Sir CV Raman in 1928, which later earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.

National Science Day serves as a tribute to Indian scientists and researchers and aims to foster a scientific temperament and curiosity among students, youths and the general public. The origins of National Science Day can be traced back to 1986, when the National Council for Science and Technology Communication proposed its observance to honour the achievements of Sir CV Raman.

The Government of India accepted the proposal, and since then, February 28 has been celebrated across the country as National Science Day.

The objective of this day is not only to commemorate a significant scientific breakthrough but also to promote awareness about the importance of science in daily life, encourage young minds to explore careers in science and technology, recognize and appreciate scientific research and innovation, strengthen public engagement with science-related activities and foster critical thinking, scientific temper in society.

Over the years, National Science Day has evolved into an event celebrated by schools, colleges, universities, and research institutions, with various activities such as science exhibitions, seminars, debates, and workshops being organized across India.

Sir CV Raman was born on November 7, 1888, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, into a family that valued education and learning. His father was a Lecturer in Mathematics and Physics, which deeply influenced young Raman’s interest in Science. From an early age, he exhibited exceptional academic abilities and was an exceptional student.

At the age of just 11, he completed his matriculation, and by 16, he earned a degree in Physics from Presidency College, Madras, where he topped his class. Despite limited resources, his passion for scientific inquiry remained undeterred. After completing his Master’s degree, he joined the Indian Finance Service but continued his scientific research in his spare time.

His relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) in Kolkata, where he conducted pioneering experiments on light scattering, ultimately leading to the discovery of the Raman Effect. His remarkable findings demonstrated that when light passes through a transparent medium, its wavelength changes due to interactions with molecular vibrations.

This breakthrough laid the foundation for Raman Spectroscopy, a technique widely used in chemical analysis, material science and medical diagnostics today. The impact of the Raman Effect has been very important, contributing to significant advancements in photonics, nanotechnology, and molecular biology. The Nobel Prize awarded to Sir CV Raman in 1930 was not just a personal achievement but also a moment of pride for India, highlighting the Nation’s potential in scientific research.

Each year, National Science Day is celebrated with a unique theme that focuses on contemporary scientific challenges and opportunities. The theme is selected by the Department of Science and Technology and aligns with India’s scientific vision and developmental goals. The theme for National Science Day 2025 is “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat.”

Some notable themes from previous years include 2024: “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,” 2023: “Global Science for Global Wellbeing,” 2022: “Integrated Approach in Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future,” 2021: “Future of STI: Impact on Education, Skills, and Work,” and 2020: “Women in Science.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his latest Mann Ki Baat address, encouraged young students to experience “One Day as a Scientist” by spending time in research laboratories, visiting planetaria and exploring space and science centres. Across the country, scientific institutions are hosting Open Day events, allowing the public to engage with ongoing research and technological developments.

The Department of Science and Technology will organize a day-long celebration featuring the inauguration of Inclusive Technology Business Incubators, support for electric vehicle startups and a collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush to develop biomedical devices.

A National-level science quiz competition, Vigyanotsav, will also take place. Several leading institutions across India are hosting special events, including public talks, science exhibitions, live demonstrations and interactive sessions with various educational and scientific activities.

India has made remarkable steps in various fields of science and technology, significantly contributing to global advancements. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has positioned India as a leading space power with numerous successful missions. The Chandrayaan-1 mission in 2008 confirmed the presence of water molecules on the Moon, while Chandrayaan-2 (2019) and Chandrayaan-3 (2023) furthered lunar exploration.

India became the first country to successfully reach Mars on its first attempt in 2014 with the Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission). The upcoming Gaganyaan Mission aims to send Indian astronauts into space. India is also actively contributing to AI-driven innovations in healthcare, agriculture, and industry.

AI-powered solutions are being developed for disease diagnosis, smart farming, and automation, placing India at the forefront of the AI revolution. The Indian biotech sector has witnessed significant progress, especially in vaccine development.

The rapid creation of indigenous COVID-19 vaccines, Covaxin and Covishield, showcased India’s capability in handling global health crises. Genetic research, bioinformatics, and pharmaceutical advancements continue to shape India’s biotech landscape. With a strong focus on solar, wind, and hydrogen energy, India is making strides toward achieving energy sustainability. The National Solar Mission aims to make India a global leader in solar energy production.

National Science Day is more than just an annual celebration; it is a call to action for individuals, educators, policymakers, and researchers to collectively work towards scientific advancement and National development. As India moves forward, its focus on space exploration, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable solutions will define the country’s role in the global scientific community.

Encouraging innovation, research, and collaboration will help shape a brighter and more technologically advanced future. Let us take inspiration from pioneers like Sir CV Raman and continue to celebrate science, nurture curiosity, and support research and development for the progress of our nation.

“The essence of science is independent thinking, hard work, and not equipment.” - Sir CV Raman