India observes National Science Day every year on February 28 to commemorate discovery of Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized the field of physics and earned C.V. Raman the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Asian to win a Nobel in this category.
National Science Day 2025 Theme: “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat”
- This theme highlights the crucial role of young minds in driving India’s scientific and technological advancements.
- It aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047, India’s vision for becoming a self-reliant and developed nation.
Background of National Science Day
- Established in 1986, when the Government of India decided to commemorate C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect.
- The National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) recommended declaring February 28 as National Science Day.
- The first celebration took place on February 28, 1987.
Objectives of National Science Day
- Spreading awareness about the importance of science and technology.
- Encouraging scientific thinking and innovation among students and researchers.
- Showcasing India’s scientific achievements and technological progress.
- Discussing future challenges in science and technology to develop new solutions.
- Inspiring public interest in scientific advancements and their applications in daily life.
Significance of National Science Day
National Science Day serves as one of India’s leading science festivals, aiming to:
- Promote the role of science in daily life.
- Celebrate India’s scientific achievements.
- Encourage scientific discussions and innovation.
- Enhance public engagement in science and technology.
What is the Raman Effect?
The Raman Effect refers to the change in the wavelength of light when a light beam is scattered by molecules.
This phenomenon is also known as Raman Scattering.
Practical Applications:
- Raman Spectroscopy: A powerful tool in chemistry, physics, and material science.
- Medicine: Used in biomedical research for analyzing molecular structures.
- Forensics: The Raman Scanner is used by police to detect illegal substances.
- Biology & Environmental Science: Helps in studying biological molecules and pollutants.