Open Day Events Across India: Engaging Sessions, Exhibitions, and Interactive Activities

Celebrating National Science Day: PM Modi Encourages Students to Experience "One Day as a Scientist

National Science Day, observed annually on February 28, has been a significant occasion since 1986. This special day commemorates the groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect by the renowned physicist CV Raman in 1928, which earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize. The importance of National Science Day extends beyond just a tribute to a remarkable scientific achievement; it serves as a vital platform to promote scientific temper and foster a culture of inquiry and innovation among the masses.

In his recent Mann Ki Baat radio address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the significance of this day by encouraging young minds to embrace the spirit of scientific exploration. He urged students to experience "One Day as a Scientist" by engaging with research laboratories, visiting planetaria, and exploring space and science centres. This initiative celebrates the legacy of CV Raman and inspires future generations to delve into the wonders of science and contribute to the nation's progress. According to reports, the theme for National Science Day 2025 will be Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat.

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will host a day-long celebration in the national capital on February 28. The event will feature the inauguration of Inclusive Technology Business Incubators, a new initiative for electric vehicle startups, and a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Ayush to develop biomedical devices. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Professor Ajay Sood, and other top scientists will attend. Additionally, a national-level science quiz competition, Vigyanotsav, will also take place.

In addition to the main events, Open Day events across India will include a session at Goa University on February 27 at 10:30 am, where Prof. Pramod Tandon will discuss "Climate Change and Biodiversity: India’s Path to Resilience." On February 28, the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune will host its annual Open Day, featuring poster exhibitions, live telescope sessions, aero-modelling, and interactive sessions with scientists. Moreover, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Pune will host an event on February 28, starting at 10:30 am, featuring live experiment demonstrations, science model exhibitions, interactive sessions with scientists, a science quiz, lectures, and more. On the same day, the Raman Research Institute in Bangalore will begin its event at 10 am, with science exhibitions and visits to the Raman Archival Gallery and museum.

Furthermore, at the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, visitors can tour the observatory starting at 9 am on February 28. The event will also include the finals of essay and quiz competitions and a popular science talk. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore will host an event on March 1, beginning at 9 am, with a special Kids' Zone for younger students. All departments will be open to visitors, featuring lectures, experiments, demonstrations, poster and quiz contests, and insights into ongoing research and technological initiatives.

Finally, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bangalore will hold an event on March 2, starting at 9:30 am. Activities will include astronomy posters, videos, and talks in Kannada and English by eminent scientists. Visitors can view solar spectra and images, participate in dark room experiments, and explore space exhibits. There will also be Q&A sessions with astronomers and discussions on career opportunities in astronomy. These events provide an excellent opportunity for young minds to immerse themselves in the world of science and innovation, paving the way for a brighter and more scientifically empowered future.

Editor’s Note:

As National Science Day approaches on February 28, we are reminded of the transformative power of scientific discovery in shaping our world. This day marks the celebration of CV Raman's groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics and made an indelible impact on the field of light scattering. National Science Day offers an opportunity to reflect on how science continues to influence our daily lives, from technological advancements to the solutions we seek for global challenges. The Prime Minister’s recent Mann Ki Baat program encourages students to step into research laboratories, visit science centres, and engage with experts, giving them a firsthand experience of the scientific process. The theme for National Science Day 2025, "Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat," underscores the nation's commitment to developing the next generation of scientific leaders.

Skoobuzz believes that by fostering a culture of innovation and curiosity, we can ensure that India continues to play a key role in global scientific advancement and remains at the forefront of shaping a sustainable and prosperous future.