In an effort to bring together journalism and science communication at a single platform, CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), National Innovation Foundation (NIF-India) and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), organised a two-day programme, “Science & Technology Media and Communicators Conclave”, from 18 to 19 January 2024, as part of the mega-science event, the India International Science Festival 2023 (IISF 2023). With a focus on new trends, challenges, and the way forward, the conclave deliberated on the multifaceted relationship between science and media by organising various sessions, including master class, panel discussions, etc.
The conclave inaugurated by the distinguished guests and experts on 18 January 2024 aimed to achieve several objectives, including promoting effective science journalism, highlighting the media’s role in science diplomacy, enhancing the representation of science in mainstream media, exploring science and cinema intersections, and facilitating networking and collaboration.
In the opening remarks, Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, said, “India has a rich legacy of communicating science. Science journalism plays a big role in disseminating scientific knowledge to the general public. S&T Media and Communicators Conclave of the IISF is an active platform to engage science journalists, media experts, students and scientists to explore a roadmap for spreading science to society.”
Welcoming the gathering, Dr Manish Mohan Gore, Coordinator of the conclave and Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR, provided a background of science journalism, its importance and the relevance of the conclave. Shri Kuldeep Dhatwalia, Senior Consultant at the Science Media Communication Cell (SMCC), CSIR-NIScPR, discussed the conclave theme, offering insights into the dynamic world of science dissemination to society.
In the inaugural session, Shri Praveen Ramdas, Chief Guest and National Joint Organising Secretary, VIBHA, highlighted the growing global recognition of Indian scientists. He further advocated for the extensive dissemination of scientific knowledge in Indian languages, aiming to bring science closer to the people.
During his keynote address, Dr William Selvamurthy, President of the Amity STI Foundation, underscored the pivotal role of science and technology in addressing societal needs. Dr Selvamurthy expressed optimism about science meeting the rising aspirations of India, citing Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a developed Bharat in the next 25 years (Amrit Kaal), where S&T will play a central role. Shri Debobrat Ghosh, Editor, Science India, and VIBHA Coordinator of the conclave, shared his perspectives, adding depth to the discourse.
Following the inaugural ceremony, an illuminating Master Class was conducted on a focal theme — “Science & Social Media: Good Practices”. The session’s panellists included Dr Pawan Singh, Head of the Journalism Department at JC Bose University; Shri Pallav Bagla, Science Journalist; Dr Somdatta Karak, Public Outreach Officer at CSIR-CCMB; and Shri Deepak Sharma, a notable Science Communicator. The session was moderated by Ms Rakhee Bakshee, Communication Advisor, Indian Institute of Public Administration.
The master class emphasised the importance of social media for science journalism. The panellists during the session suggested that scientists and journalists should adopt innovative and engaging practices for effective science communication. The interactive dialogue ignited a lively and inspiring discussion, reflecting the shared enthusiasm for effective science journalism. Receiving a good response from the audience, the journalism students and science communicators actively asked questions from the panellists. The event served as a platform for knowledge dissemination and emphasised the crucial role of social media in shaping contemporary science communication practices.
Next was the insightful panel discussion on “Significance of Media in India’s Science Diplomacy,” during which the experts were Mr Uday Kumar Varma (IAS), Former Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; Dr Arabinda Mitra, Former Scientific Secretary in the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser; and Dr Chaitanya Giri, Associate Professor & Chair, FLAME Centre for South & Southeast Asia Studies, FLAME University. While moderating the session, Shri Debobrat Ghose delved into the critical role of media in shaping India’s scientific diplomacy landscape. The gathering served as a platform for exchanging ideas and fostered a sense of camaraderie, strengthening the collaborative spirit integral to science communication and diplomacy.
The morning session started with an engaging panel discussion on “Ways to Enhance the Representation of S&T in Media”. Prof. KG Suresh, Vice Chancellor, Makhanlal University, presided over the session which included the distinguished guests — Shri Pallav Bagla, Science Journalist; Shri Raj Chengappa, Group Editorial Director, India Today; Shri Vijay Joshi, Editor-in-Chief, Press Trust of India (PTI); Ms Sapna Poti, Director Strategic Alliances, Office of Principal Scientific Adviser; and Dr Archita Bhatta, Editor, DST Media Cell. Ms Rakhee Bakshee moderated the session.
The session discussed strategies for improving science and technology coverage in the media. The discussion urged the journalists to go beyond entertainment and politics, encouraging them to write, tweet and talk about science. The deliberation addressed science journalists and communicators’ challenges and emphasised the need for a more nuanced and diverse representation of scientific endeavours in the media. As the panellists shared their experiences and insights, the audience gained a deeper understanding of the role journalists play in shaping public perceptions of science.
After a pleasant break, participants reconvened for an engaging session on “Science through Cinema”. The Guest of Honour was Mr Marc Prensky, an acclaimed award-winning American author and speaker. Mr Marc praised the portrayal of science in Indian cinema and shared his valuable insights, stating, “In this digital age, everyone is a filmmaker with gadgets in their hands. We need to train them for better science cinema in the future.” Marc highlighted the transformative potential of technology and emphasised the importance of equipping individuals with the skills to contribute to the evolution of science cinema.
Dr Chaitanya Giri chaired the session, exploring the potential of cinema in effectively communicating complex scientific concepts to a broader audience. The esteemed panel included Shri Abhijeet Satam, Director, Producer and Actor in the Marathi & Hindi Film industry; Shri Nandan Kudhyadi, National Award-winning Science Filmmaker; Shri Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, Film Director; and Shri Abhijit Mulye, Senior Journalist.
The discussion explored the challenges and triumphs of portraying science in cinema, highlighting critically acclaimed movies bridging the gap between scientific accuracy and cinematic appeal. From discussing the intricacies of storytelling to the importance of accurate representation, the panellists provided valuable information about the world of science through the lens of cinema.
The conclave concluded with a valedictory session encapsulating vital takeaways from the enriching discussions over two days. The session served as a moment of reflection and celebration, marking the successful culmination of the S&T Media and Communicators Conclave at IISF 2023. The participants received certificates for their valuable contributions.
The S&T Media and Communicators Conclave provided a platform for networking and collaboration among science communicators, media professionals, and scientists and encouraged future collaborative initiatives in science communication. As the curtains fell off on the conclave at IISF 2023, it left behind a legacy of knowledge, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to bridging the gap between science and society through effective communication.
