India is observing National Science Day today (February 28, 2026), commemorating the discovery of the Raman Effect by physicist CV Raman in 1928, a breakthrough that earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 and placed Indian science on the global map.

Observed every year on February 28, the day honours Raman’s path-breaking discovery of the scattering of light, known as the Raman Effect. His Nobel recognition made him the first Asian to receive the honour in the sciences. Over the years, the occasion has evolved into a nationwide effort to promote scientific temper, research and innovation.

National-level celebration in New Delhi for National Science Day 2026

The national-level celebration is being held today at Vigyan Bhawan and is hosted by the Department of Science and Technology under the Ministry of Science and Technology.

This year’s theme — “Women in Science: Catalyzing Viksit Bharat” — highlights the critical role of women researchers and innovators in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.

The programme opens with National Science Day lectures chaired by Principal Scientific Adviser Professor Ajay K Sood. Dr Shubha V Iyengar is addressing indigenous aerospace and defence technologies, Dr K Balasubramanian is speaking on critical metals and materials, and Shri Shashi S. Vempati is discussing direct-to-mobile broadcasting.

A panel discussion on the science-policy interface is also being organised, featuring experts from NITI Aayog, Indian National Science Academy, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research institutions, CSTEP and IGSTC. The focus is on aligning research with national development priorities. Sessions on communicating science in Indian languages and interactive “Face to Face with Scientists” engagements are part of the agenda.

Institutions open doors to public

In Bengaluru, the Raman Research Institute is hosting its annual Open Day to mark the 98th anniversary of Raman’s discovery. The event includes live demonstrations, research exhibitions and hands-on experiments, with over 1,000 students from government and private schools expected to participate.

In Mumbai, the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, a national centre of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, is organising interactive science activities on February 27. The programme includes experiments, puzzles, quizzes, sunspot observation and rocket demonstrations for students from primary to higher secondary levels.

How India Celebrates National Science Day

Celebrations are taking place across schools, colleges, universities, research institutes, and public spaces throughout the country. Common activities include:

  • Science exhibitions and fairs
  • Quizzes, debates and poster competitions
  • Public lectures by scientists
  • Live demonstrations, including Raman spectroscopy
  • Special programmes at planetariums and science centres

Institutions such as CSIR laboratories, universities, and mobile science initiatives like Vigyan Rail help bring science to wider audiences, especially students in remote areas.

The discovery that transformed science

The Raman Effect explains how light scatters after colliding with molecules, changing its energy and frequency. This discovery made it possible to identify substances without damaging them.

Today, Raman spectroscopy is widely used in medicine and healthcare, forensic investigations, chemistry and material science, and environmental studies, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of fundamental scientific research.

Why the day matters

National Science Day is more than a tribute to a historic scientific milestone. It serves as a platform to encourage scientific thinking among students, bridge the gap between science and policy, promote indigenous technological advancements, and ensure inclusive participation, especially of women in STEM.

As India works towards technological self-reliance and global competitiveness, National Science Day 2026 reinforces a clear message: the country’s future depends on nurturing curiosity, empowering youth and strengthening a culture rooted in inquiry and innovation.