Every year on February 28, classrooms, laboratories and science centres across India turn their attention to a moment that altered the course of modern physics. National Science Day is observed to commemorate the announcement of the Raman Effect by Sir C. V. Raman in 1928, a discovery that later earned him the 1930 Nobel Prize in Physics — the first Nobel awarded to an Indian scientist in the sciences.National Science Day 2026 arrives at a time when India is intensifying its focus on innovation, self-reliance and research led by young minds. The occasion connects a historic scientific breakthrough with present-day efforts to position science and technology at the centre of national development.Why February 28 is importantFebruary 28 is not the birthday of C. V. Raman. It is the day when Raman realized that when a beam of light passes through a transparent object, a certain amount of the light changes its wavelength. This phenomenon was named the Raman Effect and proved that light interacts with molecules in a way that can be measured. This means that scientists can use this phenomenon to study the composition of matter at a molecular level.The Government of India started celebrating National Science Day in 1987. This was after the National Council for Science and Technology Communication recommended it in 1986. The main idea was to promote scientific awareness among people and ensure that people use scientific knowledge in their daily lives.The discovery that changed the face of scienceThe Raman Effect is a phenomenon in which a beam of light scatters after hitting molecules and changes its energy and frequency. This phenomenon gave birth to a new technology known as Raman spectroscopy. This technology helped scientists find out what a substance was without having to damage it.Today, Raman Spectroscopy is being used in various fields. In the field of medicine and health, it is used to analyze biological samples. In forensic science, it is being used to examine evidence. It is being used by chemists and material scientists to identify composition, and environmental scientists use it to study environmental pollutants.C. V. Raman’s experiments were conducted with simple laboratory equipment. His experiments proved that with scientific observation and experimentation, it is possible to achieve something of global significance.What is special about National Science Day 2026The theme for National Science Day 2026 is “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat.” It is aimed at empowering young people to take part in scientific research, technology development, and innovation.It is part of India’s larger vision of becoming a developed nation through scientific development. It emphasizes how students must be prepared to contribute to scientific development globally and address issues of national importance through scientific development.How India celebrates National Science DayNational Science Day is celebrated in schools, colleges, universities, and scientific institutions across India. Events may range from science exhibitions, science fairs, quizzes, debates, and poster competitions that encourage children to take part.Public talks by scientists, live demonstrations of Raman spectroscopy experiments, and special events at planetariums and science centers are part of the events that take place on National Science Day. Events at institutions such as CSIR labs and universities, and even mobile science units such as Vigyan Rail, are part of the events that take place.Thus, National Science Day on February 28th is an important reminder of India’s scientific legacy and its ongoing efforts to promote scientific research, evidence-based thinking, and youth involvement in science.
