Role of women in field highlighted during Science Day celebrations

The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bio-resource Technology celebrated National Science Day on March 6 under the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat.” The day is observed across India to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by renowned physicist CV Raman in 1928, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.

Director of CSIR–IHBT Sudesh Kumar Yadav welcomed the distinguished guests and extended his greetings on the occasion. In his address, he highlighted the institute’s recent scientific initiatives, particularly those aimed at strengthening the bio-economy and improving rural livelihoods. Referring to the success of the institute’s floriculture and aroma missions, he emphasised that scientific research should ultimately benefit society and address national priorities.

The chief guest on the occasion was Shekhar C Mande, president of the Indian National Science Academy and former director general of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. Addressing the gathering, he congratulated the institute for its impactful research that is directly benefiting rural communities. He explained the discovery of the Raman Effect in an engaging manner and emphasised that curiosity was the fundamental driving force behind scientific discovery.

Sudhir Sopory, senior emeritus scientist at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology and former Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, attended the programme as the guest of honour. He spoke about the emerging challenges and opportunities in the rapidly changing scientific landscape and called upon researchers to work collectively to strengthen science and contribute to nation-building.

The National Science Day lecture was delivered by Sridevi Annapurna Singh, former director of CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, on the topic “Achieving Food and Nutritional Security in Bharat – Pivotal Role of Women.” She presented an overview of the current status of food and nutrition in the country and highlighted the importance of traditional foods, balanced diets, and proper nutrition in ensuring overall well-being

On the occasion, the institute signed six technology transfer agreements with industry partners, including Biolaxi Enzymes Pvt Ltd (Thane, Maharashtra), Red Mirchi Associates (Jind, Haryana), Madan Lal Tissue Culture Lab (Jaisinghpur), Harsh Enterprises (Patiala, Punjab), Trimurti Udyog (Palampur) and Behatar Himachal (Village Bhel, Ghumarwin, Bilaspur).