CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi, commemorated its 78th Foundation Day with a grand celebration held on 4 January 2024. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries and luminaries from the scientific community and witnessed a series of impactful sessions and significant announcements. The occasion was graced by Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, INSA and Former Secretary, DST, GoI, as Chief Guest. The distinguished guests included Dr Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, New Delhi and Dr Viswajanani J Sattigeri, Head, CSIR-TKDL, New Delhi.

The celebration kicked off with the ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolising the illumination of knowledge and innovation. Prof. Venu Gopal Achanta, Director, CSIR-NPL, extended a warm welcome, setting the tone for an insightful day. Prof. Achanta also shed light on the recent developments and activities of CSIR-NPL.

Dr Ranjana Aggarwal congratulated CSIR-NPL for its glorious 77 years of service to the nation and the lab’s contribution in various facets of science and technology for Atmanirbhar Bharat. Further, Dr Aggarwal informed about the most recent initiatives of national interest taken by CSIR-NIScPR, like the compendium of CSIR technologies based on their assessment of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale; Livelihood creation for rural India through deployment of CSIR technologies by collaborating with the UNNAT Bharat Abhiyan and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA). Dr Viswajanani J Sattigeri emphasised the importance of Traditional Knowledge and its relevance in the present time.

The highlight of the Foundation Day celebration was the keynote address by Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, who spoke on Science and its various facets and interfaces like Invention, Innovation, Culture, and Society. His talk was a beacon of inspiration, emphasising the significance of scientific advancements in shaping the nation’s progress.

The day also witnessed pivotal moments with the release of Bharatiya Nirdeshak Dravya (BND) BND® 1041 — Conductivity Standard Solution for Drinking Water with RMP Aashvi Technology LLP (ATL), Ahmedabad and BND® 5061 — Pet Coke Standard (Chemical Parameters) with RMP National Council for Cement & Building Materials (NCCBM), Ballabgarh. A Technology Agreement Tool for Partnerships, TATPAR (?????), was also launched.

The occasion served as a platform to honour the rich legacy of CSIR-NPL while embracing the future with groundbreaking initiatives and collaborative endeavours. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Govind, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NPL and Coordinator of the programme, followed by the National anthem.