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National Science Day honours CV Raman’s discovery and celebrates India’s latest achievements in space, AI, quantum computing, and youth science initiatives.
National Science Day marks an important scientific discovery made by Indian physicist CV Raman. (File pic)
National Science Day is observed in India every year on February 28. The day marks an important scientific discovery made by Indian physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (C.V. Raman). It is also a time to recognise how science shapes our daily lives and supports the country’s growth.
The date was chosen to honour the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ in 1928. Through this finding, Raman showed how light changes when it passes through a clear material. His work helped scientists better understand the structure of different substances and later earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.
National Science Day 2026: History And Significance
Sir C.V. Raman made his discovery while working at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science in Kolkata. His research explained how light scatters and changes energy when it travels through a transparent object. This became known as the Raman Effect and remains an important concept in physics.
In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) asked the Government of India to declare February 28 as National Science Day. The government agreed, and the first celebration was held in 1987. Since then, the day has been observed every year across the country.
National Science Day is meant to spread awareness about the value of science and its use in everyday life. It also highlights the work of Indian scientists and encourages young people to take an interest in research and innovation.
The main goals of the day include sharing knowledge about scientific work, discussing new ideas, and promoting science and technology among the public. It also serves as a reminder of how scientific progress improves health, education, communication, and many other areas.
National Science Day 2026: Theme
The theme for National Science Day this year is “Women in Science Catalysing Viksit Bharat.” The focus this year is on the role of women scientists and their contribution to building a developed India. The theme aims to inspire more girls and women to pursue careers in science and research.
National Science Day 2026: Celebrations
Schools, colleges, and research centres mark the day with exhibitions, quizzes, poster competitions, and model displays. Many institutions also organise talks and seminars where experts discuss space missions, green technology, and new scientific developments.
Institutes like IISER Pune reportedly hold science shows and interactive sessions for students. In several districts, events focus on projects related to solar energy, robotics, and waste management, while films on scientists such as APJ Abdul Kalam are screened to inspire young minds.
National Science Day 2026: India’s Scientific Achievements
In 2025, India showed steady progress in science and technology across many fields. Here are a few of the key highlights from the year:
India’s Growing Global Standing
India improved its position in global innovation rankings. It secured the 38th spot in the Global Innovation Index 2025 and ranked 6th worldwide in intellectual property filings, according to WIPO. The country also rose in the Network Readiness Index, reflecting better use of digital and communication technologies. In research publications, India ranked third globally, showing strong academic output.
ISRO’s Major Milestones
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recorded over 200 key achievements during the year. One major highlight was the successful Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) in January, where two satellites docked in orbit. This placed India among a select group of countries with this advanced capability.
ISRO also completed its 100th launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The government approved a third launch pad to support future missions, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. Meanwhile, the Aditya-L1 solar mission continued to send important data about the Sun, contributing to global research.
In July 2025, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla returned after an 18-day mission aboard the International Space Station, marking a key step toward India’s future crewed missions.
Progress in Semiconductors and Computing
India unveiled DHRUV64, its first fully indigenous 64-bit microprocessor developed by C-DAC. ISRO also introduced Vikram 3201, designed for space missions. Under the India Semiconductor Mission, several new projects were approved to strengthen chip manufacturing within the country.
Supercomputing also expanded under the National Supercomputing Mission, with dozens of high-performance systems supporting research in climate modelling, drug discovery, and materials science.
Artificial Intelligence Expands
Artificial intelligence moved into practical use in 2025. In agriculture, AI-based monsoon forecasts were shared with farmers through SMS, helping them plan crops. In healthcare, AI tools like MadhuNetrAI supported early detection of diabetic eye disease.
India also developed BharatGen, a multilingual AI model designed to work in Indian languages. It supports tools for farmers, small sellers, and citizens seeking easy access to information.
Quantum Computing Breakthroughs
Under the National Quantum Mission, Bengaluru-based startup QpiAI launched a 25-qubit quantum computer called QpiAI-Indus. Later in the year, it introduced the 64-qubit “Kaveri” processor, marking progress in advanced computing.
Investing in Research and Youth
The government approved the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme with a Rs 1 lakh crore fund to boost private investment in science. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) was also launched to improve coordination between universities and industry.
Science outreach expanded beyond big cities. National Science Day events, student competitions, mobile science vans, and programmes like INSPIRE-MANAK encouraged young students across India to take interest in science and innovation.
February 28, 2026, 07:00 IST