ICAR-IARI celebrates National Science Day

28^th February 2025, New Delhi

The ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) celebrated National Science Day today with a tribute to Nobel Laureate Sir C.V. Raman, engaging rural school children in the festivities. This year’s theme, ‘Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for a Developed India,’ highlights the importance of nurturing young talent to shape India’s future.

In his inaugural address, Dr Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, spoke about India’s transformation from a nation struggling with food security to becoming self-sufficient and an exporter of agricultural produce. He encouraged students to think big and contribute to national development, drawing inspiration from the late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s teachings. Dr Rao also discussed how scientific innovations have revolutionized agriculture and urged students to consider careers in this evolving field, where technology and sustainability are shaping the future. He emphasized hard work, dedication, and the importance of contributing to agriculture.

Dr Anupama Singh, Dean & Joint Director (Education), highlighted ICAR-IARI's contributions to the Green Revolution and stressed science's role in everyday life, especially in agriculture. She encouraged students to adopt curiosity-driven learning, stating, ‘Science is about questioning the 'what' and 'why' behind every phenomenon. Understanding these processes cultivates a scientific mindset that drives innovation.”

Following the formal sessions, students toured the Discovery Centre and explored exhibitions such as the Insect & SciTech Club (UG) Exhibition, Integrated Farming System, Drone Display, Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology (CPCT), and the National Agricultural Science Museum (NASC Complex). These exhibits showcased cutting-edge agricultural technology, sustainable farming practices, and scientific innovations in agriculture.

The event concluded with encouragement for students to pursue careers as future scientists, innovators, and leaders. ICAR-IARI remains dedicated to fostering scientific inquiry and innovation, shaping the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers. Additionally, students were given vegetable seed kits to demonstrate the journey of plant growth, emphasizing the role of science in agriculture.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi)