National Science Day | Learn about an important discovery!

Science & Technology are crucial components of our everyday survival. Combined, both disciplines have facilitated the creation of a comfortable environment and lifestyle. 

These have an even bigger role to play in developing nations such as India. With discoveries and advancements in the field, scientific interventions have dramatically influenced the overall quality of life. 

Recognizing the impact that science has in improving the lives of Indian citizens, the country now celebrates National Science Day on February 28th every year! This day is dedicated to celebrating a historic achievement by Dr. CV Raman in spectroscopy – later referred to as the ‘Raman Effect.’ 

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about this day! 

Who is Dr. CV Raman? 

Born on November 7th, 1888, CV Raman was the second of eight children in a family in Trichinopoly. Raman was very interested in science from a young age and continued to borrow physics & mathematics books from his father’s college library (his father was a lecturer in the same subjects).

His continued interest in science propelled him towards publishing his first academic paper at a mere 18 years of age. 10 years later, the University of Calcutta offered him the position of Palit Chair of Physics. This made Raman a full-time scientist. 

People recognized CV Raman as a remarkable Asian scientist during an age when only European specialists made significant contributions to the field. 

What is the Raman Effect? 

On the way to the Congress of Universities at Oxford, Raman noted the brilliant blue color of the Mediterranean Sea. He began to doubt Lord Rayleigh’s explanation for the colors of the sun during sunrise & sunset and the blue hue of the daytime sky. 

In a desire to find an alternate explanation, Raman returned to India and constructed a set comprising a diffraction grating, miniature spectroscope, and a prism. 

With his consistent efforts and tireless hours of work, Raman proved that the wavelength of light scatters when it is deflected on an object. He formulated this explanation on 28th February 1928, now celebrated as National Science Day! 

Dr. CV Raman won a Nobel Prize in 1930 for his work on “the scattering of light and the discovery of the effect named after him.” 

What are the objectives of Science Day? 

The day is to celebrate one clear objective – to spread awareness of the importance of science and applications of scientific principles in everyday life. 

Every year, this day talks about the role of science in creating productive and sustainable lifestyles. This is also a day when the achievements, activities, and efforts of famous personalities in the field are discussed and celebrated. 

Another key objective of National Science Day is the discussion of current issues in the field and encouraging the youth to popularise science & technology to seek novel solutions.

How to celebrate National Science Day? 

The Department of Science & Technology (DST) is the nodal agency that supports, coordinates, and initiates the celebration of National Science Day in India. Celebrations take place in schools, research laboratories, scientific institutions, and autonomous scientific authorities. 

As a part of the celebrations, different schools and colleges conduct science fairs to demonstrate unique science projects created by students. Additionally, state and national science institutions hold conferences to share their latest research and developments. 

On this day, you will recognize events such as- 

• Science exhibitions
• Talk shows on television and radio
• Live projects
• Research demonstration
• Quiz competition
• Skywatching 
• Debates
• Displaying science models

What are the different themes of National Science Day? 

There are different themes that emphasize a specific niche within the vast field. The themes for the last 5 years of National Science Day celebrations were- 

• 2022 – Integrated Approach in Science & Technology for Sustainable Future 
• 2021 – Future of STI: Impact on Education Skills & Work 
• 2020 – Women in Science 
• 2019 – Science for the People, and the People for Science 
• 2018 – Science & Technology for a Sustainable Future 

Celebrations for National Science Day 2022

As a part of the celebrations for National Science Day 2022, some of the different activities around the country include-

• Presentation of science projects in schools and colleges. 
• Presentation of recent research findings by state science and national institutions. 
• Scientific movie exhibitions 
• Science model displays 
• Quiz contests 
• Lectures 
• Research demonstrations 
• Observatories 
• Themed science exhibitions 
• Discussions on radio and television 
• Public speeches 

Key Takeaways 

• India celebrates February 28th of every year as National Science Day. 
• This is a day dedicated to paying homage to some of the notable scientists and their contributions to the field. 
• A key objective of this day is to help spread awareness of the power of science and technology. A significant emphasis is also placed on current issues in the world and how science can solve those issues. 
• There are many activities hosted every year to honor the influence of science and technology in our everyday lives. 

So, there you have it – all about National Science Day and its importance. If you have any questions/suggestions, reach out to us or drop a comment.

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FAQs 

Q1. Do other countries celebrate National Science Day? 

Answer – No, National Science Day is specifically celebrated in India. However, different countries honor the discipline in their ways. For example, the Philippines celebrates science for an entire month. This is referred to as ‘Science Month.’ 

Q2. How should I celebrate National Science Day? 

Answer – You can do something as simple as watching a documentary on your favorite scientific concept. Engaging with like-minded individuals on social media platforms and public forums can be another great way to celebrate National Science Day in your little way. The sky is the limit! 

Q3. Do Indian science agencies celebrate National Science Day? 

Answer – Most Indian science agencies celebrate National Science Day with conferences to share recent research findings.