India celebrates National Science Day every year on February 28 to commemorate the groundbreaking discovery made by Indian scientist Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928. Raman’s discovery of the phenomenon known as the ‘Raman Effect’ revolutionized spectroscopy and earned him the Nobel Prize in science in 1930. The day is marked by schools, colleges, universities, and various academic, scientific, and research institutions organizing quiz competitions, seminars, and other events to honor scientific achievements.
What is the Raman Effect?
The Raman Effect, as described by the Ministry of Culture, is a phenomenon in spectroscopy where photons are scattered by excited molecules at higher energy levels. Simply put, it involves a change in the wavelength of light when it is deflected by molecules.
National Science Day 2024: Theme and Significance
The theme for National Science Day 2024 is ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,’ focusing on promoting scientific skills and innovations and showcasing how Indian scientists have tackled problems using homegrown technologies. This theme underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and the scientific community, both domestically and internationally, to address global challenges and foster self-reliance in science.
The day serves to raise awareness about the impact of science on daily life, highlight Indian scientists’ achievements, and facilitate discussions on scientific issues and advancements. It also provides a platform to implement new technologies and promote science and technology to the broader community. Ultimately, the day serves as a reminder of the critical role of science in improving lives and shaping the future of humanity.