National Science Day 2026: Why India Celebrates February 28 and the Raman Effect

India on Friday observed National Science Day 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.

The day connects a historic scientific breakthrough with present-day efforts to position science and technology at the centre of national development. National Science Day 2026 comes as India sharpens its focus on innovation, self-reliance and research driven by young minds.

Why February 28 is important

February 28 marks 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. Scientists can use this phenomenon to study the composition of matter at a molecular level.

The Government of India began celebrating National Science Day in 1987 after the National Council for Science and Technology Communication recommended it in 1986. The objective was to promote scientific awareness and encourage the use of scientific knowledge in daily life.

The discovery that changed science

The Raman Effect is a phenomenon in which a beam of light scatters after hitting molecules and changes its energy and frequency. The discovery led to the development of Raman spectroscopy. The technology allows scientists to identify substances without damaging them.

Today, Raman spectroscopy is used in medicine and health to analyse biological samples. In forensic science, it is used to examine evidence. Chemists and material scientists use it to identify composition, while environmental scientists apply it to study pollutants.

Raman conducted his experiments with simple laboratory equipment. His work demonstrated that careful scientific observation and experimentation can achieve results of global significance.

What is special about National Science Day 2026

The theme for National Science Day 2026 is "Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat." The focus is on encouraging young people to participate in research, technology development and innovation.

The theme aligns with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation through scientific advancement. It stresses preparing students to contribute to global scientific development and address national challenges through research.

How India celebrates National Science Day

Schools, colleges, universities and scientific institutions across the country organise science exhibitions, fairs, quizzes, debates and poster competitions to mark the occasion.

Scientists deliver public lectures and conduct live demonstrations of Raman spectroscopy experiments. Special programmes are held at planetariums and science centres. Events are also organised at CSIR laboratories, universities and through mobile science initiatives such as Vigyan Rail.

National Science Day on February 28 serves as a reminder of India’s scientific legacy and ongoing efforts to strengthen research, evidence-based thinking and youth participation in science.