February 23, 2025: AIC π-Hub celebrates National Science Day 2025 with RRCAT to Inspires Future Global Leaders

National Science Day (NSD) is celebrated in India on February each year to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Prof. C V Raman, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in the year 1930 and Bharat Ratna in 1954. Following the tradition of inviting students and teachers on preceding weekend for the open house, the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) invited welcomed approximately 1000 students from over 70 schools in and around Indore. The event was planned with a focus to ignite a passion for science and innovation among young minds resonating the theme of NSD-2025, “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat”. The students along with their teachers, were treated to a day filled with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and insightful talks, showcasing the cutting-edge research and technological advancements at RRCAT. NSD-2025 was jointly organized by AIC π-Hub with RRCAT.

Dr. S.K. Majumder, Chairman, NSD-2025 welcoming Shri Unmesh D. Malshe, Director, RRCAT during NSD-2025 inaugural session

Dr. S.K. Majumder, Director, Material Science and Advanced Technology Group and Chairman, NSD-2025, stated, “RRCAT celebrates this event with meticulous planning to commemorate the enduring legacy of Sir C.V. Raman and to encourage scientific innovation, curiosity, and awareness among students, researchers, and the general public. It is our responsibility to nurture the next generation of scientists and innovators to make India a global leader.”

Dr. C.P. Paul, Convener, NSD-2025, delivered a talk on NSD-2025 theme focusing on innovations in day-to-day life and highlighting the success of Indian startups. He said, "India will certainly become a global leader through innovation. However, it is important that each of us contributes our capabilities and commitment to this goal. Today, many opportunities and platforms are available for innovation and startups, and all young minds should convert these opportunities into success stories.”

Shri Unmesh D. Malshe, Director, RRCAT & Chairman AIC π-Hub, spoke on the basics of the Raman Effect and the working principles of accelerators and lasers, which are the main areas of research and development at RRCAT. His lucid explanation in simple language was very much appreciated by the students and teachers. He said, “RRCAT is committed to inspire curiosity, ignite creativity, and foster a love for science among students, researchers, and enthusiasts. By demonstrating the practical applications of our research, we hope to inspire them to pursue careers in science and technology contributing India to be Global leader.”

Shri Unmesh D Malshe, Director RRCAT & Chairman AIC π-Hub addressing student gathering	Senior NSD-2025 organizing committee members with hearing and speech-impaired students

The day featured a wide range of exhibits and demonstrations, including: working exhibits on lasers and their biomedical and industrial applications, demonstrations of basic science concepts such as the Raman Effect, total internal reflection, etc. Live demonstrations of technological applications like superconducting magnetic levitated trains, CNC machining, and glass blowing. Displays of in-house technological developments, including TuBerculoScope, Raman Probe, and laser technologies.

Students visting various RRCAT laboratories

Special arrangements were made for hearing and speech-impaired students, with interpreter-teachers facilitating their participation. Director Malshe and senior organizing committee members engaged in a separate interactive session with these students. An “Ask-a-Question” event provided a platform for students to interact with RRCAT scientists, fostering lively discussions on various scientific topics. Participation prizes were awarded to encourage curiosity and engagement. “The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by the students were truly inspiring,” said Dr. Sunil Verma, Head, Photonic Materials Technology Section, RRCAT, and the program anchor. The students were also impressed by the cleanliness and greenery of the RRCAT campus. RRCAT remains committed to promoting scientific awareness and inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators.

The second day was marked the visit of college students and family & friends of RRCAT employees. More than 5,000 visitors including the school students, college students, and family & friends of RRCAT employees visited RRCAT during the NSD-2025.