In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
National Science Day 2025: Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation

About National Science Day (NSD)
- Date of Celebration: February 28 every year.
- Purpose: To commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928.
- Recognition: The Government of India designated February 28 as National Science Day (NSD) in 1986.
- Significance:
- Encourages scientific awareness and curiosity among citizens.
- Promotes science and technology as a means for national development.
- Provides students with exposure to career opportunities in research and innovation.
Theme for National Science Day 2025
- Theme: “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat”
- Inspiration:
- Derived from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
- Highlights the importance of youth in driving scientific progress and innovation on a global scale.
- Objective:
- Encourage young minds to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
- Strengthen India’s leadership in scientific research, technology, and innovation.
NSD 2025 Celebrations & Key Events
- Chief Guest: Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of Science & Technology, will preside over the celebration at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
- Science Lectures: Two key lectures will be delivered by:
- Shri Shashi S. Vempati – Co-Founder of AI4India & Former CEO of Prasar Bharati.
- Prof. Sanjay Behari – Director, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology, Kerala.
- Science Communication Activities:
- Open house sessions at scientific institutions.
- Science exhibitions, quizzes, and lectures for students.
- Interactive sessions to promote research and scientific careers.
Role of National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC)
- Nodal Agency: The NCSTC (Department of Science & Technology - DST) coordinates NSD celebrations across India.
- Functions:
- Supports lectures, quizzes, and outreach programs.
- Encourages state S&T councils to organize activities in schools and colleges.
- Enhances public appreciation of scientific advancements.
Importance of the Raman Effect
- Discovery by Sir C.V. Raman: Announced on February 28, 1928.
- Nobel Prize: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics (1930).
- Concept:
- Explains the scattering of light and changes in wavelength when passing through a transparent medium.
- Has applications in medical science, material analysis, and quantum mechanics.
Significance of National Science Day
- Encourages youth participation in science & research.
- Promotes scientific temper and innovation in India.
- Strengthens India's role as a leader in global scientific research.