Background

National Science Day commemorates the discovery of the Raman Effect, a phenomenon where light changes wavelength when scattered by molecules, aiding in studying material structures. This day, first declared in 1986 and celebrated since 1987, promotes science awareness and showcases achievements for human welfare.

The day features various events like public speeches, science fairs, and debates, engaging schools and institutions. It highlights science’s role in daily life, fostering innovation and encouraging youth to pursue scientific careers, aligning with the 2025 theme’s focus on global leadership.

Did you know Sir C.V. Raman was also a music enthusiast, studying the acoustics of Indian instruments like the tabla and mridangam, blending science with art in his curiosity?

The National Science Day and the Legacy of Sir C.V. Raman

National Science Day, observed annually on February 28 in India, is a vibrant celebration marking the discovery of the Raman Effect by the eminent physicist Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928. This day, first declared by the Government of India in 1986 following a recommendation by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC), and celebrated since 1987, serves as a platform to promote scientific awareness, showcase achievements, and inspire the next generation, particularly with the 2025 theme, “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat.” This survey note delves into the history, significance, and activities associated with this day, alongside the fascinating life and contributions of Sir C.V. Raman, ensuring a comprehensive understanding for young readers.

The roots of National Science Day trace back to February 28, 1928, when Sir C.V. Raman, working at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science in Kolkata, discovered the Raman Effect. This phenomenon involves the scattering of light, where a beam of light, upon passing through a dust-free, transparent sample, results in a small fraction of light emerging with changed wavelengths due to interactions with molecules. Most scattered light retains its original wavelength, but a minor portion exhibits shifts, known as Stokes and Anti-Stokes shifts, which are crucial for studying molecular structures.

Raman’s discovery earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Indian and Asian to receive this honor in science, a milestone that underscored India’s scientific prowess on the global stage. The day was officially designated National Science Day in 1986, with the first celebration occurring on February 28, 1987, to commemorate this landmark achievement and foster a scientific temper among the populace.

For young minds, the Raman Effect can be likened to a game of light and molecules. Imagine shining a flashlight through a glass of water; most light passes through unchanged, but a tiny bit bounces off the water molecules, changing color slightly. This change, detected through a technique called Raman spectroscopy, helps scientists identify the material’s composition, much like reading a unique barcode. The Stokes shift occurs when light loses energy, resulting in a longer wavelength (lower energy), useful for studying chemical compounds. Conversely, the Anti-Stokes shift, where light gains energy and has a shorter wavelength (higher energy), aids in temperature measurements and high-energy molecular studies. This effect is pivotal in fields like chemistry, physics, medical research, and forensic science, offering insights into material properties and advancing technological innovations.