National Science Day 2024: Why February 28 Marks a Celebration of Science in India

National Science Day 2024: Celebrating India’s Scientific Heritage and Future Innovations

On February 28, 1928, the world witnessed a groundbreaking scientific discovery by Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman—the ‘Raman Effect.’ This pivotal moment in scientific history is commemorated annually as National Science Day in India. In this article, we delve into the significance of this day, the Raman Effect, and the activities that make this celebration a testament to India’s scientific prowess.

National Science Day: A Tribute to the Raman Effect:

February 28 holds a special place in the hearts of scientists and science enthusiasts across India, as it marks the day Sir C.V. Raman unveiled his groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect. This phenomenon, involving the shift in light wavelength caused by molecules deflecting a light beam, earned Raman the prestigious Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) proposed to the Indian government to declare February 28 as National Science Day. Subsequently, the government agreed, and the first National Science Day was celebrated on February 28, 1987

The Significance of National Science Day:

National Science Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the significance of science and its applications in our daily lives. It stands as one of India’s major science festivals, aiming to achieve several objectives. These include spreading awareness about the role of scientific applications in daily life, showcasing the efforts and achievements of Indian scientists for human welfare, discussing scientific issues, implementing new technologies for scientific development, and encouraging the popularization of science and technology among the masses.

Theme for National Science Day 2024: ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat’:

Each year, National Science Day is celebrated with a specific theme, and the theme for 2024 is ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). This theme reflects a commitment to fostering homegrown innovations and technologies, emphasizing self-reliance and sustainability in the scientific domain.

Understanding the Raman Effect:

CV Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect occurred while he was working in the laboratory of the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science in Kolkata. This phenomenon, central to spectroscopy, involves the shift in light wavelength caused by the deflection of a light beam by molecules. When a light beam passes through a dust-free, transparent sample of a chemical compound, a small percentage of it scatters in directions other than the incident beam. While most of the scattered light maintains a constant wavelength, a small portion exhibits different wavelengths, giving rise to the Raman Effect.

Activities on National Science Day:

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) plays a pivotal role in coordinating and supporting National Science Day celebrations across the country. Institutions affiliated with the DST, research laboratories, and scientific institutions actively participate in various activities. Students showcase science projects, national and state science institutions present their latest research, and a myriad of events such as public speeches, radio and television talk shows, science exhibitions, skywatching sessions, live projects, research demonstrations, debates, and quiz competitions take place.

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Conclusion:

National Science Day is a testament to India’s rich scientific heritage and its commitment to future innovations. By commemorating the Raman Effect and embracing themes like ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,’ the celebration not only honours past achievements but also sets the stage for a future where science and technology play a central role in the nation’s development. As the scientific community and the public come together on February 28, 2024, India reaffirms its dedication to fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and discovery.

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