National Science Day

BACKGROUNDER

Introduction: On the initiative of Rashtriya Vigyan Evam Prodoyogiki Sanchar Parishad (RVPSP) (Nation Council for science & Technology Communication), February 28 was designated as National Science Day (NSD) by Government of India in 1987. Since then this day is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm. The programmes relating to NSD range from a day to a full month either beginning or culminating on February 28. The activities include debates, quiz competitions, exhibitions, lectures, etc., involving college and school students and teachers. Research institutions/laboratories have been organizing “Open House Day/Week” for creating awareness among public as part of NSD.

Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, the eminent physicist working in the laboratory of the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata a phenomenon discovered in a spectroscopy, which is now known as “Raman Effect” on this day in 1928 for which he was subsequently conferred the highest honour – the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.

Basic objectives:

The basic objective of observation of National Science Day is to spread the message of importance of science and its application among the people. This is essential to accelerate the pace of development. Even in the 21st century and despite many significant achievements sections of our society are still guided by blind faith and beliefs, which is reflected in the quality of decision making on developmental issues.

Science has contributed a great deal to human welfare. Through the gospel of reason and experimental observation, by which is works, it has enabled man to acquire intellectual integrity and even purity of mind. From the materialistic point of view, ranging from environmental issues, disease eradication, space exploration, energy production, information highway to name a few, science and technology has broken barriers to bring peace and prosperity with a cleaner environment with sustainable use of resource for the benefit of mankind. Biotechnology is imparting a major impact on agriculture, health, environment, industry and pharmaceuticals. Communication at lower cost, with greater accessibility, is another product of technology.

Health and hygiene issues are prime concerns for the common people. The daily use of science like the use of clean drinking water, knowledge to eradicate contagious disease, the know-how of various agricultural practices to increase crop production, the usefulness of biodiversity conservation etc., should be disseminated to the common people.

Generating awareness on science & technology is the first step towards inculcation of scientific temper and capacity building of science communicators is one major component.

Modus Operation:

All the NSD activities are planned around a theme suggested by RVPSP. Some of the recent themes are as follows:

National Awards for S&T Communication: We organize a central function on 28th February every year.

The RVPSP presents the following six awards:

1. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science & Technology Communication. Cash award of Rs.2.00 Lakh
2. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science & Technology Communication through Books & Magazines. Cash award of Rs. 1.00 Lakh
3. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science & Technology Popularization among Children. Cash award of Rs. 1.00 Lakh
4. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Translation of Popular Science & Technology Literature. Cash award of Rs. 1.00 Lakh
5. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science & Technology Communication in the Print Medium. Cash award of Rs. 1.00 Lakh
6. National Award for Outstanding Effort in Science & Technology Communication in Electronic Medium. Cash award of Rs. 1.00 Lakh

Outreach Plan for understanding Planet Earth

The General Assembly of the United Nations has proclaimed 2008 as the International Year of Planet Earth. This has been promoted by consideration that understanding of Earth as a system, an integral part of the Solar system and its ways of maintaining the equilibrium between them will contribute significantly to a safer, healthier and wealthier world. Ten broad themes have been identified through consultation at several national and international platforms.

1. Groundwater
2. Hazards
3. Earth & Health
4. Climate
5. Resources
6. Mega cities
7. Deep Earth
8. Earth and life
9. Planet Earth in our hands
10. Ocean

Need for S&T Communication

The directions in which developments are occurring due to inputs of science & technology require a greater awareness amongst the common people. The community should be able to discuss and assess alternatives and consider support on issues.

The basic objectives of the ‘Outreach Programme’ are:

• Increase public awareness through existing and new means in identified areas that need attention;
• Use all media (electronic as well as non-electronic) to ensure country-wide reach;
• Involve scientists and citizens to develop programmes that address issues at a grass root level; and
• Enable and empower the community for balanced and safe development of life on earth.
  
  
  Institutions and organizations will take initiatives with specific emphasis on issues that concern the subcontinent. This outreach plan will help earth scientists as well as science communicators to meet specific and local needs with measurable outcomes.
  

Source : Press Information Bureau
Date : February 28, 2008