Effective science communication plays an important role in translating research outcomes and sharing scientific and technological information in a lucid and impactful way. High-quality scientific publishing serves as a spine for ensuring that research findings and advances in science and technology are communicated with credibility, clarity, and global visibility. Keeping this in view, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, in collaboration with CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, hosted a significant scientific publishing event aimed at the popularisation and strategic strengthening of CSIR-NIScPR journals. The programme served as an important platform for deliberations on enhancing the visibility, quality, and global impact of Indian scientific journals published under the aegis of CSIR.
The event brought together a diverse and distinguished gathering of editors, researchers, policymakers, scientists, and publishing professionals from premier CSIR laboratories and institutions. It marked an important step towards reinforcing India’s scholarly publishing ecosystem and promoting indigenous journals as credible and influential platforms for disseminating high-quality scientific research. The initiative aligns closely with the broader national vision of Viksit Bharat, which emphasises self-reliance, excellence, and global leadership in science and technology.
The programme presented the critical role of CSIR-NIScPR journals that have been communicating India’s scientific achievements to the global community. These journals, many of which have a legacy spanning several decades, represent a rich tradition of scientific rigour, editorial excellence, and innovation. They continue to serve as trusted publications for researchers across disciplines. They foster the exchange of knowledge and support evidence-based policymaking.
Speakers from CSIR-IICT, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), and CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) highlighted the importance of strengthening Indian journals to increase their international visibility, citation impact, and relevance. They emphasised that national journals with high quality are essential for showcasing India’s research strengths and for nurturing young researchers by providing high-quality, accessible publication avenues. The speakers also appreciated the dedicated efforts of the CSIR-NIScPR team in sustaining and modernising these journals amidst the evolving global publishing landscape.
Dr Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Indian journals published by CSIR-NIScPR. She traced their evolution over the years, elaborated on editorial and peer-review processes, and highlighted their growing global reach. Dr Rayasam emphasised the importance of these journals within the Indian scientific ecosystem, particularly in supporting interdisciplinary research and promoting ethical and transparent publishing practices. In addition, her talk also focused on the relevance of policy research and Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessment, stressing their role in translating scientific research into societal and industrial applications.
Dr N Majumdar, Chief Scientist and Scientific Editor, shared valuable insights into the Indian Journal of Chemistry, one of CSIR’s flagship publications with a strong legacy in chemical sciences research. He discussed the journal’s scope, editorial standards, and its continued relevance in advancing fundamental and applied chemical research.
Dr Puspanjali Tripathy, Principal Scientist and Scientific Editor, presented the Indian Journal of Chemical Technology, wherein she highlighted the journal’s editorial and scientific strengths. She emphasised its unique role in bridging chemical sciences with process engineering and industrial applications. She outlined how the journal supports innovation and technology development by publishing research that connects laboratory findings with real-world industrial needs.
Reflections on Indian journals with rich legacies in biological research were presented by Dr NK Prasanna, Principal Scientist and Scientific Editor. She spoke about the historical significance, contemporary relevance, and future directions of these journals in advancing biological sciences and life science research in India.
Scientists and research scholars from all three laboratories — CSIR-IICT, CSIR-CCMB, and CSIR-NGRI — actively participated in the event, engaging in discussions and interactions with editors and speakers. The programme concluded on a positive note, reinforcing the collective commitment of CSIR laboratories and CSIR-NIScPR towards strengthening Indian scientific publishing and enhancing the global impact of Indian research.
