National Science Day, celebrated annually on February 28th in India, commemorates the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928. This day is dedicated to fostering a scientific mindset, highlighting the achievements of Indian scientists, and promoting science among the public, particularly the youth. The theme for 2025 is "Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat". 
 
History and Significance:
  • 1928:
    Sir C.V. Raman announced his discovery of the Raman Effect, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. 
     
  • 1986:
    The National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) proposed to designate February 28th as National Science Day. 
     
  • 1987:
    The first National Science Day was celebrated, marking the beginning of the annual commemoration. 
     
Objectives of National Science Day:
  • Promote Science: To raise awareness about the importance of science in everyday life and to highlight its impact on society. 
     
  • Inspire Youth: To encourage young minds to pursue careers in science and technology. 
     
  • Foster Innovation: To create a culture of scientific innovation and research. 
     
  • Commemorate Achievements: To celebrate the achievements of Indian scientists and their contributions to global knowledge. 
     
Activities and Celebrations:
  • Events:
    National Science Day is celebrated through various events, including seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and science quizzes in schools, colleges, and universities. 
     
  • Theme:
    Each year, a different theme is selected to focus on specific aspects of science and technology, such as indigenous technologies for Viksit Bharat. 
     
  • Awards:
    The National Science Popularization Awards recognize individuals for their contributions to science communication and popularization. 
     
Why February 28?
The date was chosen to commemorate the announcement of the Raman Effect discovery, a significant scientific achievement that earned Sir C.V. Raman the Nobel Prize.