National Science Day 2025: Fostering Innovation for Viksit Bharat

Why in the News?

National Science Day 2025, celebrated on February 28, highlights India’s scientific advancements, including quantum computing, AI, supercomputing, and geospatial technologies. This year’s theme emphasizes youth empowerment in science and innovation, aligning with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

National Science Day 2025: Fostering Innovation for Viksit Bharat

Significance and Objectives

  • Celebrated annually on 28th February to honor Sir V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect (Nobel Prize, 1930).
  • First observed in 1987, promoting science awareness and technological advancements.
  • The 2025 theme: “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for VIKSIT BHARAT.”
  • Key objectives:
    • Promote the role of science in daily life.
    • Showcase India’s scientific achievements and innovations.
    • Encourage discussions on technological advancements.
    • Inspire young minds to contribute to scientific progress.

Future Vision: Towards Viksit Bharat 2047

  • INSPIRE Program: Nurturing young talent in science & technology.
  • WISE-KIRAN Scheme: Supporting women scientists in STEM fields.
  • Climate Research: Risk mapping for floods & droughts via four new Centres of Excellence.
  • Technology Development Board (TDB): ₹220.73 crore funding for critical tech sectors.
  • Expanding scientific outreach: INSPIRE-MANAK to include Class 11-12 students from 2025.
  • India’s rich scientific heritage and continued investments in R&D will drive innovation, fostering a self-reliant and globally leading scientific ecosystem.

Key Scientific Advancements in 2024:

  • India’s Innovation & Research Growth:
  • Ranked 39th in the Global Innovation Index 2024.
  • 6th in global IP filings (WIPO Report).
  • Network Readiness Index (NRI): Climbed to 49th place from 79th (2019).
  • Major Initiatives:
  • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Supports young researchers & inclusivity in R&D.
  • National Quantum Mission (NQM): ₹6003.65 crore investment in quantum technologies.
  • National Supercomputing Mission (NSM): Supercomputing power expanded to 32 PetaFlops.
  • BharatGen Initiative: Development of India’s first multilingual AI Large Language Model (LLM).
  • Geospatial Science Expansion: Spatial Thinking Programs in 116 schools across 7 states.