National Science Day commemorates C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect. Celebrated on February 28th, it promotes science and innovation in India.
National Science Day is observed annually in India on February 28th. It commemorates the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ by Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman. This significant discovery occurred in 1928 and led to Raman receiving the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.
The Raman Effect
The Raman Effect, as described by the Ministry of Culture, is the scattering of photons by excited molecules, resulting in a change in the wavelength of light. When a beam of light passes through a transparent sample of a chemical compound, a small portion of the light is scattered in different directions. While most of the scattered light retains its original wavelength, a fraction experiences a change in wavelength. This change is the essence of the Raman Effect.
In simpler terms, when light interacts with molecules, it can either be scattered elastically (Rayleigh scattering) with no change in energy or inelastically (Raman scattering) with a change in energy. This change in energy corresponds to a shift in the wavelength of the scattered light.
History of National Science Day
In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) proposed to the Government of India that February 28th be declared National Science Day. The government accepted this proposal, and the first National Science Day was celebrated on February 28, 1987.
Each year, National Science Day is celebrated with a specific theme to highlight particular aspects of science and technology. Educational institutions, research centers, and scientific organizations across India organize various events such as quiz competitions, seminars, lectures, and exhibitions to celebrate scientific achievements and promote scientific awareness.
National Science Day 2025 Theme
The theme for National Science Day 2025 is “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat”. This theme emphasizes the importance of nurturing young talent and recognizing significant contributions to science. It also celebrates India’s progress and achievements in the field of science.
IISc Open Day
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) also acknowledges the importance of science by hosting its Open Day. In 2024, the IISc Open Day was held on Saturday, March 1st, from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. This annual event occurs near the birth anniversary of IISc’s founder, J.N. Tata (March 3), and coincides with National Science Day (February 28).
IISc’s Open Day allows the public to explore the campus and learn about scientific developments through exhibitions, hands-on experiments, live demonstrations, lectures, and panel discussions. The event typically includes scientific displays, lectures on current scientific trends, interactive quizzes, and competitions.
Significance of National Science Day
National Science Day serves as a reminder of the importance of science and its role in national development. It is an opportunity to encourage young minds to pursue careers in science, recognize the achievements of Indian scientists, and promote scientific literacy among the general public. The day highlights the impact of scientific research on various aspects of life and encourages innovation and technological advancement.
The legacy of C.V. Raman continues to inspire scientists and researchers in India and around the world. His groundbreaking discovery has had a profound impact on various fields, including physics, chemistry, and medicine. National Science Day is a fitting tribute to his contributions and a celebration of the power of scientific inquiry.
Sources: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/iisc-open-day-on-march-1/article69266209.ece
https://www.ndtv.com/offbeat/national-science-day-2025-theme-significance-quotes-and-more-7814183
https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=153790&ModuleId=3