CSIR-NIScPR Celebrates 83rd Foundation Day of CSIR with Focus on Bridging Science and Society

New Delhi: The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) marked the 83rd Foundation Day of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) with a celebratory event at the National Agricultural Science Complex in Pusa, New Delhi.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, who highlighted the ongoing efforts of CSIR in fostering scientific research and technological advancements. She emphasized NIScPR’s role in bridging the gap between science and society, noting, “At NIScPR, we publish 15 research journals and three popular science magazines, striving to make our content accessible in all Indian languages. Notably, we’ve recently participated in the UN Assembly Science Summit.”

A distinguished guest speaker, Prof. (Dr.) Sushma Yadav, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Central University of Haryana, addressed the audience, shedding light on the misconception that India lacks scientific temper. She remarked, “CSIR has been actively working to dispel this notion by promoting a scientific tradition that coexists with spiritual temper, aiming to create a harmonious blend of rational inquiry and cultural values.”

Prof. Jagat Bhushan Nadda, Director of the Consortium for Education Communication, lauded CSIR’s pivotal role in carrying forward India’s scientific legacy. “CSIR has consistently been at the forefront of addressing national challenges and benefiting society. The need of the hour is to make science accessible, particularly in rural areas. By translating scientific research into actionable policies, CSIR is successfully creating synergy between education, research, and innovation,” he said.

During the event, a special issue of Science Reporter, a monthly publication by CSIR-NIScPR titled “Science Reporter: A Six Decade Journey in Science Communication (1964-2024)” was released. The issue highlights the magazine’s longstanding role in promoting science communication in India.

The program also included an award ceremony where retirees, employees completing 25 years of service, and meritorious students of 10th and 12th grades were honored by the distinguished guests.

In the evening, a vibrant cultural program showcased performances by children of NIScPR staff members, S&T and administrative staff, students, and project staff. The celebrations concluded with a prize distribution ceremony for the Foundation Day competitions, recognizing participants in painting, drawing, quiz, essay, and sports events.