
Fri Feb 28 05:58:13 UTC 2025: **India Celebrates National Science Day, Honoring C.V. Raman’s Legacy**
**NEW DELHI, February 28, 2025** – India observed National Science Day today, commemorating the discovery of the Raman effect by Nobel laureate Sir C.V. Raman on February 28, 1928. The day, celebrated annually since 1986, aims to promote scientific awareness and achievement.
The Raman effect, a change in light wavelength caused by molecular deflection, forms the basis of Raman spectroscopy, a crucial tool in chemistry, biology, medicine, and even law enforcement (for detecting illegal substances).
This year’s theme, “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat,” highlights the government’s focus on fostering scientific progress among young people, in line with the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision for a developed and self-reliant India.
The discovery itself was serendipitous. While returning from a London conference in 1921 aboard the SS Narkunda, Raman was captivated by the blue of the Mediterranean Sea. This sparked years of research culminating in his groundbreaking discovery. Raman’s achievement earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Asian to receive the honor.
National Science Day events across the country included lectures, workshops, and exhibitions designed to engage the public with the wonders of science and its applications. The day serves as a reminder of the transformative power of scientific inquiry and the importance of nurturing future generations of scientists and innovators.