Commemorating the discovery of the Raman effect and emphasizing India’s scientific achievements
Every year on February 28, India celebrates National Science Day 2024 to honour the groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928. This day not only marks a significant milestone in the annals of Indian science but also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the crucial role of science in societal advancement and the betterment of human lives. The celebration of National Science Day underscores the contributions of the scientific community towards making life simpler and more manageable through science.
The observance of this day traces back to 1986 when the Indian government, recognizing the importance of fostering public understanding and appreciation for science, officially designated February 28 as National Science Day. This decision was made following a proposal by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication, aiming to commemorate Raman’s Nobel Prize-winning discovery. The Raman Effect, a phenomenon describing the change in wavelength of light when it passes through a transparent material, underscored India’s presence on the global scientific stage, with Raman becoming the first Indian scientist to win a Nobel Prize in science.
The theme for National Science Day 2024, “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,” highlights the emphasis on utilizing home-grown technologies to address national and global challenges. This theme reflects an ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and scientific excellence within the country. It encourages the scientific community, both in India and abroad, to collaborate and contribute towards the creation of a developed India, leveraging science and technology for the welfare of humanity.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State for Science & Technology, emphasized the significance of this year’s theme as a call to action for scientists and the public to work together in harmony. The theme not only celebrates the past achievements of Indian scientists but also looks forward to the contributions that science and technology can make towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
National Science Day is a testament to the progress India has made in the field of science and technology. From climbing the ranks in the Global Innovation Index to achieving historic feats such as the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon’s south pole, India’s scientific community has demonstrated its capacity for innovation and excellence. The day serves as a reminder of the pivotal role science plays in our lives and the potential it holds for solving some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today.
By celebrating National Science Day, India not only pays tribute to Sir C.V. Raman and his legacy but also shines a light on the importance of science in advancing societal progress and enhancing the ease of living for its citizens. It is a day of reflection, celebration, and motivation for the scientific fraternity and the public to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible through the power of science.
