CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIR-CSIO), Chandigarh, celebrated its 2024 Foundation Day enthusiastically, reflecting on its rich legacy of scientific contributions and unwavering commitment to innovation. The event featured a keynote lecture from renowned scientist and educator Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, whose insights brought depth to the celebration.
Prof. Sharma, the Chief Guest, participated in a ceremonial tree planting alongside CSIR-CSIO Director Prof. Shantanu Bhattacharya, former Director Dr RP Bajpai, and Dr Amitava Patra, Director of INST Mohali. Following this, they visited the ISTC conference room, where pivotal CSIR-CSIO technologies were showcased.
In the ISTC Auditorium, Prof. Bhattacharya welcomed guests, faculty, staff, and students with an inspiring address titled “A Walk in Time,” tracing CSIR-CSIO’s history since 1959. He honoured the contributions of past directors and highlighted the organisation’s current initiatives, including research in next-generation display technologies, HUD systems, and energy materials, alongside academic and skill development advancements.
Among the proposed initiatives, Prof. Bhattacharya shared plans for an ATMP Facility, a NABL-accredited spectroscopic testing lab for textiles, IoT-enabled water measurement systems, and a new research block. He emphasised CSIR-CSIO’s mission to address societal challenges through impactful research and continued leadership in scientific instrumentation.
Prof. Bhattacharya also introduced Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, former DST Secretary and current IIT Kanpur professor, whose career spans groundbreaking contributions to materials science, nanotechnology, and policy. In his lecture, “Science and Scientists in the New Millennium: A Brave New World,” Prof. Sharma discussed India’s future in science, highlighting ANRF’s role in uniting academia, industry, and government to foster innovation. His thought-provoking address aligned with CSIR-CSIO’s mission to advance research and explore new technological frontiers.
CSIR-CSIO hosted an Open Day to mark the occasion, inviting students, teachers, and science enthusiasts to explore its facilities. Visitors engaged with scientists in interactive sessions showcasing advancements in scientific instrumentation and applied research.
The 2024 Foundation Day was a memorable celebration of CSIR-CSIO’s achievements and future-focused vision. Prof. Sharma’s inspiring presence reinforced CSIR-CSIO’s dedication to fostering collaboration and driving innovative solutions for the nation.