With great zeal and vigour, CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, celebrated the 83rd Foundation Day of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) at the National Agricultural Science Complex, Pusa, New Delhi, on 30 September 2024. The Distinguished Guests for the programme were Prof. (Dr) Sushma Yadav, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Haryana and Prof. Jagat Bhushan Nadda, Director of the Consortium for Education Communication.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR. Appreciating the efforts of CSIR, she said, “CSIR labs are actively engaged in all the areas of science and technology. At NIScPR, our focus is on bridging the gap between science and society. We publish 15 research journals and three popular science magazines, and we are striving to make our content accessible in all Indian languages. Notably, we’ve recently participated in the UN Assembly Science Summit.”

Addressing the gathering, Prof. (Dr) Sushma Yadav, said, “CSIR strives to bridge the gap between science and industry. Historically, there has been a misconception that India lacks scientific temper, and CSIR has been working to dispel this notion. By promoting a scientific tradition that coexists with spiritual temper, we aim to create a harmonious blend of rational inquiry and cultural values.”

Prof. Jagat Bhushan Nadda, remarked, “CSIR has admirably carried forward India’s scientific legacy, serving as a cornerstone in our nation’s journey. By being at the forefront of addressing national challenges, CSIR has consistently benefited society at large. The need of the hour is to make science accessible, especially in rural areas. To maximise impact, scientific research and discoveries must be translated into actionable policies. CSIR is successfully creating synergy between higher education, research, and innovation, positioning India to become a global leader in science and innovation.”

CSIR-NIScPR’s Science Reporter, a monthly popular science magazine in English, has recently completed its sixty years in science communication. Marking this milestone, the October 2024 issue of the magazine — “Science Reporter: A Six Decade Journey in Science Communication (1964-2024)” was also released during the foundation day celebrations. Besides, the Distinguished Guests felicitated retirees, employee who completed 25 years of service, and a meritorious 12th-class student by presenting them awards.

A cultural programme was also organised as part of the Foundation Day celebrations, during which children of NIScPR staff members, students, and project staff participated with great interest and enthusiasm. The programme showcased various captivating performances, filling the evening with joy and excitement. Subsequently, prizes were distributed for the various competitions, including painting, drawing, quiz and essay, which were organised earlier as part of the foundation day celebrations.

Shri Mukesh Pund, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR and Chairperson of the Foundation Day programme, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed his gratitude to all the committees engaged in organising the programme. The event was attended by CSIR-NIScPR staff with their families, AcSIR students, and project staff.