CSIR-NIScPR Inaugurates Renovated Facility, Emphasizes Innovation in Science Communication

New Delhi: The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR) marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its newly renovated second floor at its premises in New Delhi. Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR and Secretary of DSIR, Government of India, presided over the event, highlighting the institute’s enhanced infrastructure aimed at advancing science communication and policy research in India.

The inauguration ceremony also featured a tree plantation drive, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (A Tree in the Name of Mother), symbolizing a commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.

Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, welcomed Dr. Kalaiselvi and other dignitaries, reflecting on the institute’s achievements. Prof. Aggarwal emphasized that this marked Dr. Kalaiselvi’s third visit to NIScPR in 2024, underscoring her keen interest in its initiatives. She highlighted the institute’s unique role in offering PhD programs in science communication and science policy, awarding 16 PhD degrees, and training over 50 students in Science Technology Innovation Policy and science communication.

During an interactive session with scientists and research scholars at the Vivekananda Conference Hall, Dr. Kalaiselvi underlined NIScPR’s pivotal role as India’s nodal institution for issuing ISSN numbers for Indian journals. She urged the institute to amplify awareness of this initiative, particularly advocating for journals in regional languages as a catalyst for national progress.

Dr. Kalaiselvi stressed the importance of crafting strong introductory chapters in PhD theses, proposing their review and publication as scholarly papers. She also emphasized the need to balance experimental and theoretical approaches in scientific research, focusing on predicting future outcomes.

Highlighting the role of effective science communication, Dr. Kalaiselvi encouraged scholars to develop advanced documentation skills, such as creating graphical abstracts and utilizing innovative platforms for presenting research. She proposed the creation of a unique digital space to showcase innovation in science communication through short videos and reels, aiming to inspire a broader audience and elevate the visibility of Indian research.

In her address, Dr. Kalaiselvi envisioned NIScPR as a hub for producing the country’s finest science communicators, equipped to publish in high-impact journals. She reaffirmed the importance of science communication as a bridge between research and societal impact, ensuring the accessibility and relevance of scientific advancements.