New Delhi : To commemorate the historic announcement of the discovery of the Raman Effect by C. V. Raman on 28 February 1928, CSIR–National Physical Laboratory celebrated National Science Day (NSD-2026) on 28 February 2026 with a series of academic and outreach events. The celebrations included a National Science Conclave in the morning followed by the National Science Day Lecture in the afternoon.
The programme began with the National Science Conclave, which provided a vibrant platform for research scholars, students and young scientists below the age of 40 to present their work through poster presentations. The research was showcased under three thematic domains—Materials Science and Technology (MST), Physics, Engineering and Metrology (PEM), and Environment, Health and Chemistry (EHC). Selected posters were recognised with certificates of merit. The conclave aimed to nurture young scientific talent and encourage interdisciplinary research.
The National Science Day Lecture commenced with opening remarks by Prof. Venu Gopal Achanta, Director of CSIR–NPL, who warmly welcomed the distinguished dignitaries. In his address, he highlighted the historic association between CSIR–NPL and the Raman Effect through K. S. Krishnan, who provided conclusive evidence for the phenomenon and later became the founding Director of the laboratory. Prof. Achanta emphasised the importance of developing local solutions for both national and global challenges, while also stressing the need to address emerging opportunities in quantum metrology and expand metrological interventions in frontier areas of science and technology for societal benefit.
The National Science Day Lecture was delivered by the Chief Guest, Prof. Bhim Singh, Vigyan Shri and ANRF National Science Chair Professor and Emeritus/Honorary Professor at IIT Delhi. Speaking on the theme “Electric Vehicle – a Sustainable Energy Revolution,” he highlighted the evolution, technologies, charging infrastructure and mission-driven roadmap of electric vehicles as a key pillar of sustainable energy transformation.
The Guest of Honour lecture was delivered by Prof. Prateek Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Delhi Technological University, who shared his perspectives on creating a repository of societal problems and addressing them through collaborative efforts between academia and research institutions. His address inspired participants with a vision for stronger academia–research synergy and innovation-driven growth.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Govind Gupta, Convener of NSD-2026, who highlighted the various activities undertaken by CSIR–NPL, including the organisation of the first National Science Conclave and initiatives promoting the role of women in science as part of Catalysis Viksit Bharat at CSIR–NPL.