New Delhi, March 1: Commemorating the historic discovery of the Raman Effect by C. V. Raman on 28 February 1928, CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) celebrated National Science Day 2026 with a day-long programme featuring a National Science Conclave and a special lecture series.

The celebrations began with the inaugural National Science Conclave, offering a dynamic platform for research scholars, students and young scientists under 40 to present their work through poster sessions. The presentations were organised under three thematic areas — Materials Science and Technology, Physics, Engineering and Metrology, and Environment, Health and Chemistry. Outstanding contributions were recognised with certificates of merit, underscoring the laboratory’s commitment to nurturing emerging scientific talent and fostering interdisciplinary research.

Delivering the opening address, Director Prof. Venu Gopal Achanta highlighted CSIR-NPL’s historic association with the Raman Effect, recalling the seminal contributions of K. S. Krishnan, the founding Director of the laboratory, who provided conclusive evidence supporting the discovery. He emphasised the need for developing local solutions to address both national and global challenges, and called for greater focus on quantum metrology and advanced measurement science to drive societal applications.

The National Science Day Lecture was delivered by Chief Guest Prof. Bhim Singh, Vigyan Shri and ANRF National Science Chair Professor, who spoke on “Electric Vehicle – A Sustainable Energy Revolution.” He traced the evolution of electric vehicle technologies, charging infrastructure and India’s mission-oriented roadmap towards sustainable mobility.

Guest of Honour Prof. Prateek Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Delhi Technological University, highlighted the importance of building a repository of societal challenges and promoting collaborative problem-solving between academia and research institutions to accelerate innovation-led growth.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Govind Gupta, Convener of NSD-2026, who also highlighted key outreach and scientific initiatives undertaken by CSIR-NPL, including efforts to promote greater participation of women in science.