Today, 28 February 2026, India observes National Science Day, a nationwide celebration dedicated to the spirit of scientific inquiry, innovation and education. The day honours a landmark moment in scientific history- the discovery of the Raman Effect by eminent Indian physicist C. V. Raman on this date in 1928, a breakthrough that earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 and placed Indian science on the global map.
Instituted by the Government of India in 1986 and first celebrated in 1987, National Science Day has since become a vibrant tribute to scientific temper, rational thinking and research culture across the country’s educational ecosystem.
2026 Theme: “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat”
The official theme for this year’s celebrations, “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat,” has been announced by the Department of Science and Technology, under the Ministry of Science and Technology. The theme recognises the critical role of women researchers, innovators and educators in shaping India’s scientific growth and driving the nation towards a developed (Viksit) Bharat. It emphasises inclusion, gender equity in STEM fields, and the transformative impact of women’s contributions to research, technology and innovation.
In his address, Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the theme’s importance in encouraging wider participation of girls and women in scientific careers and leadership, underscoring that inclusive innovation is vital to India’s progress.
How the Day is Being Celebrated
Across the country, schools, colleges, universities, research institutes and science centres have organised a rich variety of activities to engage students and the public with science:
- National-level events at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, include special lectures, panel discussions and awards that showcase contributions of women scientists.
- At Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, a full-day science festival features public science shows, exhibitions, quizzes, interactive experiments and talks by distinguished researchers.
- Regional celebrations- from Andhra Loyola College’s optics demonstrations to NITK Surathkal’s science exhibitions and competitions, bring scientific exploration to local students and communities.
- In Shillong, students participated in STEM competitions and model exhibitions under the national theme, reinforcing science outreach in Northeast India.
Elsewhere, institutions are promoting hands-on activities, astronomy sessions, public lectures, poster contests, debates and science quizzes that inspire curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving.
At a time when innovation, research and technology are central to national development, National Science Day serves a dual purpose: it celebrates India’s scientific heritage and encourages a scientific mindset among future generations. By honouring historic discoveries and spotlighting women’s contributions, the 2026 observance reinforces that science belongs to everyone and that diverse minds are key to India’s journey towards a prosperous, knowledge-driven future.
This National Science Day is not just a remembrance of the past, it’s a call to action for a more inclusive, innovative and inquiry-led society.