The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, recently conducted impactful orientation workshops for its Science Media Communication Cell (SMCC) between 23 February and 8 March 2024, at CSIR-NIScPR, Pusa, New Delhi. The aim of these workshops was to equip SMCC staff and PhD students with the knowledge and strategies needed to effectively communicate Science and Technology (S&T) information to the public.

The workshops featured invited talks, interactive sessions, and hands-on assignments, fostering a dynamic learning environment for participants. Renowned experts from various media backgrounds shared their insights on crafting compelling science narratives across diverse platforms.

Week 1: Harnessing the Power of Traditional and Digital Media 
The opening week started with a focus on leveraging traditional and digital media for science communication.

Shri Dipen Mazumdar, Faculty, National Academy of Broadcasting and Multimedia (NABM), Prasar Bharati, shared his experiences on “Communicating S&T information effectively via radio,” on 23 February 2024. He highlighted the power of this medium to reach diverse audiences nationwide. He elaborated on the activities of All India Radio to effectively communicate science to the public.

Ms Rakhee Bakshee, Communication Advisor at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), addressed the growing importance of short-form content in the digital age. Her talk, “The Role of Short Videos and Reels in communicating science,” emphasised the power of engaging, concise, and accurate content to capture audience attention. Ms Bakshee also highlighted the critical issue of misinformation on social media and the importance of fact-checking information to combat its spread.

Dr BK Tyagi, a renowned science communicator, presented “Communicating Science through Traditional Folk Media.” He explored the effectiveness of utilising familiar cultural expressions to connect with communities and promote scientific understanding. Dr Tyagi’s talk provided valuable insights into how to approach, communicate, and present scientific information through traditional folk media platforms.

Shri Manoj Miankar, Programme Executive at All India Radio, shared his expertise in crafting captivating science narratives for the audio format on 26 February 2024. The “Crafting Compelling Science Narratives for Radio" session delved into the essential elements of vocal delivery, including voice quality, emotional quotient, and texture. Shri Miankar emphasised the importance of clear pronunciation, engaging delivery, and utilising modern spoken language to connect with diverse audiences and bring science stories to life for radio listeners.

Week 2: Leveraging Electronic Media and Refining Content 
Week two of the workshops focused on the potential of electronic media and best practices for science content creation.

The day began with a session by Shri Mohan Sagoriya, Associate Editor of “Electroniki Apke Liye” (Bhopal), on 1 March 204. Shri Sagoriya discussed the importance of carefully selecting and presenting S&T content for print media, particularly science magazines. He shared valuable insights on selecting and tailoring appropriate content for a lay audience.

Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, underscored the significance of electronic media in bridging the gap between scientific research and the public. She emphasised the crucial role of science communication in fostering public understanding of scientific advancements.

Following Prof. Aggarwal’s address, Shri Anjay Mishra, Programme Producer at Doordarshan New Delhi, shared valuable insights on the effectiveness of science programmes on television. His talk explored techniques and tools to enhance science programmes’ presentation and impact on electronic media. Shri Mishra further expressed a commitment to incorporating SMCC’s science communication products into Doordarshan’s programming, recognising their potential to amplify the reach and impact of science dissemination efforts.

On 6 March 2024, Dr Ashok Selwetkar, Assistant Director at CSTT, shed light on the role of technical terminology in S&T dissemination. His session included a training component that familiarised participants with the latest technical terminology on scientific words from the government’s newly launched website. This interactive session taught attendees to accurately and effectively communicate complex scientific concepts using appropriate technical terms.

The afternoon session featured presentations by Ms Priyanka Tiwari, Programme Executive from All India Radio, and Shri Bharat Bhushan, Project Director of Doordarshan. Ms Tiwari’s talk focused on effective techniques for broadcasting the scientific achievements of Indian laboratories on the radio platform. She also shared her journey on the radio and explained how science communication has flourished in radio.

Shri Bhushan’s presentation explored innovative ways to disseminate science through social media. He addressed the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in content creation for increased audience engagement on social media platforms. Both presentations gave participants valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices for science communication across radio and social media.

Week 3: Capacity Building and Fostering Public Engagement 
The final week of the workshops focused on capacity building and fostering public engagement with science.

The day commenced with a session by Shri Debobrat Ghose, Editor of Science India Magazine, on 8 March 2024. Shri Ghose discussed “The Basics of Popular Science Writing,” illuminating the core principles of crafting engaging science narratives for the public. He paid homage to the legacy of JC Bose, a pioneering science fiction writer, highlighting the power of science fiction in sparking public imagination and interest in scientific exploration. Shri Ghose emphasised the importance of demystifying complex scientific research by translating scientific jargon into captivating narratives for a broader audience. He advocated for close collaboration between science communicators and scientists to ensure accurate representation of scientific discoveries and perspectives.

Dr Sarah Hyder Iqbal, Consultant at Fast India (a non-profit organisation), delivered an interactive session titled “Science and Public Engagement.” This session actively engaged participants through illustrative drawing and expressive writing exercises. Dr Iqbal’s approach underscored the critical role of capacity building in science communication. By equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to effectively communicate science, workshops like this empower participants to contribute to a more scientifically literate society.

Overall Impact and Continuing Efforts
The CSIR-NIScPR's orientation workshops on science communication were a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and professional development for SMCC staff and PhD students. The workshops equipped participants with a comprehensive toolkit for communicating science effectively across diverse media platforms, including traditional folk media, electronic media, print media, radio, and social media.

Workshops like these play a crucial role in bridging the gap between science and society, ensuring that the wonders of science are understood and celebrated by the public.