CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication & Policy Research (NIScPR), New Delhi, and J.C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaboration and networking to advance policy research and science communication by leveraging respective strengths.

The MoU signing ceremony was organised in the J.C. Bose University on 27 August 2021. The MoU was signed by the Director Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal on behalf of CSIR-NIScPR, New Delhi, and the Registrar Dr S.K. Garg on behalf of J.C. Bose University. The collaboration will open new avenues for knowledge sharing and skill development in science communication and STI policy research.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal said that both the institutes have a prosperous legacy of science communication, policy research and science education of more than 60 years. CSIR-NIScPR has been working at the interface of science, technology and society. It works for behavioural change, inculcation of scientific temper and rationality among the public. On the other hand, J.C. Bose University has a good hold on Industry-Academia linkage, technological expertise and has a strong alumni network. In this way, both the institutions can strengthen each other with their capabilities and contributions by sharing resources including libraries, publications, programmes and laboratories.

Prof. Aggarwal said that people have always had a different outlook and perception about science due to which science has not been able to connect with society. In CSIR-NIScPR, our efforts are focused on connecting science with society and we are working to promote science and technology through various endeavours of science communication. She emphasised that with this collaboration, both the institutions can work together in the area of Science, Technology, Innovation, Research, Policy Studies and Science Communication. The University can also make a big contribution in promoting Science Journalism, she added. Besides this, social initiatives by the University and the Community College are areas where both the entities can work together.

On this occasion, Registrar of J.C. Bose University Dr S.K. Garg spoke about the University and its academic activities. He said that the collaboration between the two institutions will promote scientific and technological research which will ultimately benefit society.

Speaking on this occasion, the Dean Placement, Alumni and Corporate Affairs, Prof. Vikram Singh said that the University has added new Centres of Excellence to further enhance the skills and employability of students. Also, the University has made significant improvements in research publications. He said that the collaboration with CSIR-NIScPR would help to improve the research quality in the University.

Earlier, Dr Mohammad Rais, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR gave a brief introduction about CSIR and its countrywide network. He said that CSIR is known for its cutting edge R&D knowledge base in diverse Science and Technology areas. Having a pan-India presence, CSIR has a dynamic network of 37 National Laboratories, 39 Outreach Centres, 3 Innovation Complexes and 5 units. CSIR's R&D expertise and experience are embodied in about 4600 active scientists supported by about 8000 scientific and technical personnel. It is working with the vision of New CSIR for New India.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dean (R&D) Prof. Rajesh Kumar Ahuja. A collector's edition (August 2021 issue) of the popular science magazine “Science Reporter” of CSIR-NIScPR was also showcased on this occasion.

CSIR-NIScPR’s Chief Scientist and Dean-Science Communication Shri Hasan Jawaid Khan, Chief Scientist and Dean-Policy Research Dr Sujit Bhattacharya, Dr Naresh Kumar, Chief Scientist, Dr Kanika Malik, Principal Scientist, Dr Manish Mohan Gore, Scientist and Ms Shraddha Pandey attended this programme from CSIR-NIScPR. Dean (FET) Prof. M.L. Aggarwal, Dean (FIC) Prof. Komal Kumar Bhatia, Dr Popli and Librarian Dr P.N. Bajpai were also present on this occasion from J.C. Bose University.