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Every year, National Science Day is celebrated on February 28 to honor the prestigious discovery of the Raman Effect by the renowned physicist, Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, popularly known as CV Raman, in the field of science in India. It is a day to remember his unprecedented contribution to science and aspires to groom a scientific temper among the young of the country.
Early Life and Academic Excellence of CV Raman
C. V. Raman, born on November 7, 1888 in Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu, was brought up in an academic milieu — his father was a lecturer in mathematics and physics. In 1902 Raman was admitted to Presidency College, Madras (now Chennai), where he proved extraordinarily talented. He graduated in 1904 with a BA (Bachelor of Arts) degree, first in the first class with a gold medal in physics. In 1907, he received his first academic qualification with a Master of Arts (MA) degree awarded with highest distinction.
Professional Journey and the Discovery of the Raman Effect
Raman was deeply devoted to research, and while there were not many options for a career in science in India those days, nothing would dampen his spirit. He was recruited to the Indian Finance Department in 1907, but his passion for science compelled him to work on experiments in his spare time at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) in Calcutta. This immutable passion resulted in the discovery of the Raman Effect on the 28th of February, the year being 1928. This effect accounts for the variation in measured wavelengths of light passing through a transparent substance, and thus serves as a powerful tool for molecular and atomic insight. For this illustrious discovery, Raman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in the year 1930 and became the first Asian to receive the Nobel Prize in any branch of science, a fact noted by even Albert Einstein.
Establishment of National Science Day
The significance of the Raman Effect in scientific research and its applications prompted the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) to propose the celebration of National Science Day on February 28. The Government of India accepted this recommendation, and since 1987, National Science Day has been observed annually. The day aims to celebrate CV Raman’s legacy and inspire scientific curiosity and innovation among the masses.
National Science Day 2025: Theme and Significance
The National Science Day 2025 theme is Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat. This reflects the importance of youth in driving the scientific and technological development of India to fulfill the vision of a developed India by the year 2047. Across the country, hundreds of educational and research institutions participate in organizing events, workshops, and seminars to engage students and the public, and to establish a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation.
Legacy of CV Raman
CV Raman was not only a Nobel awardee for his discovery, but also made immense contributions throughout his scientific career. He was Palit Professor of Physics at the University of Calcutta; later he was Director of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore. In 1948 he founded the Raman Research Institute, inspiring high-level scientific research. His fanatical focus on research and training has made an indelible mark on academia and inspired countless scientists and researchers.
Honoring CV Raman: National Science Day & India’s Scientific Future
National Science Day is a salute to the legendary contribution of CV Raman toward science and also acts as a source of inspiration to explore the realms of knowledge and innovation. As we advance into a future driven by science and technology, the legacy of CV Raman lights our path and continues to steer our nation’s journey.
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