National Science Day: Date, history, significance and theme

National Science Day is celebrated on Feb 28 (Image credit: @ianuragthakur/X)

National Science Day is celebrated in India on February 28 every year in honour of the Nobel Prize-winning Physicist Sir CV Raman. February 28 marks the day on which his discovery of the Raman Effect came to light in 1928. For this discovery, Sir CV Raman was awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. He was the first Asian to receive a Nobel Prize in any branch of science. It is in honour of the great physicist that Indians celebrate National Science Day on February 28.

National Science Day history

In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) asked the Government of India to designate February 28 as National Science Day. Every year since 1987, National Science Day is celebrated on February 28 to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect.

National Science Day is observed on February 28 to honour the discovery of the 'Raman Effect' by Sir CV Raman

Take a look at the journey of 1st Asian to receive a Nobel Prize for Physics which continue to inspire generations of science enthusiasts#CVRaman@MinOfCultureGoI pic.twitter.com/jy4Ot5Id0L

— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) February 28, 2024

Significance and celebrations

National Science Day aims to promote a scientific temperament among the population and highlight the significance of science in everyday life. Educational institutions, scientific organizations, and various other institutions across the country organize events, seminars, workshops, and exhibitions to celebrate the occasion.

The day serves as a reminder of India's rich scientific heritage and encourages scientific research and innovation. It also seeks to inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in science and technology, fostering a scientific mindset for the development of the nation.

National Science Day 2024 theme

The theme for National Science Day changes every year, focusing on various aspects of science and technology.

The theme for National Science Day 2024 is “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat.” It was announced by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh. The theme for this year aims to promote and raise awareness about homegrown innovations and discoveries that can pave the way for India’s scientific progress.