CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) Jammu, celebrated National Science Day on 28 February 2026 with great enthusiasm and a spirit of discovery and innovation on its campus, bringing together scientists, research scholars, students, and innovators. The day is observed to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Nobel Laureate CV Raman. The daylong event was organised under the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat,” reflecting the institute’s commitment to strengthening scientific temper and advancing innovation in alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047.
The event was graced by Dr Madhu Dikshit, JC Bose National Fellow, Distinguished Scientist Chair (Ministry of AYUSH), National Science Chair of ANRF, and former Director of CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI), Lucknow, as the Chief Guest. Delivering the National Science Day Lecture entitled “Harnessing Women’s Potential for Scientific Growth”, Dr Dikshit expressed her gratitude for being part of the celebration and congratulated CSIR-IIIM for its contributions to national development, including its leadership in the Aroma Mission and integrative healthcare research. Speaking on the theme of Women in Science, she highlighted that women constitute nearly 43 per cent of India’s STEM students, one of the highest proportions globally. However, she noted that representation declines at advanced research and leadership levels due to social and structural barriers.
She emphasised the need for mentorship, institutional support, exposure to conferences, and leadership opportunities to bridge this gap. Diversity in science, she said, leads to broader perspectives and innovative solutions. Citing examples from the COVID-19 pandemic, she underlined how collaborative and inclusive scientific efforts can effectively address national challenges. Dr Dikshit encouraged students to pursue science with passion and resilience, reminding them that determination and confidence are essential for success. She concluded with a call to unlock the full potential of women in STEM to accelerate innovation, economic growth, and India’s global scientific competitiveness.
Earlier, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, in his welcome address, described the occasion as a moment to honour the discovery of a brilliant Indian physicist, Sir CV Raman, for the groundbreaking discovery of the “Raman Effect.” More than 350 students from 13 schools across the Jammu region, including Bhartiya Vidya Mandir High School, Hiranagar, Springdales English School, Changran, Kathua, Jammu Sanskriti School, Jammu, PM Shri JNV Gharota Jammu-1, Army Public School Kaluchak, PM Shri JNV Samba, PM Shri JNV Udhampur, Heritage School Jammu, RRL High School, Maharishi Vidya Mandhir Sr Sec. School, PM Shri KV No 2 Akhnoor, Bhartiya Vidya Mandir Sr Sec. School Ambphalla, Jammu, participated in various competitions and laboratory visits. A total of 230 students attended laboratory visits, witnessing ongoing research in natural products, medicinal chemistry, biotechnology, and drug discovery. The programme included a Science Model Exhibition Competition, Quiz Competition, Poster Presentation, and Extempore Competition.
During the event, winners of various competitions were also felicitated by the Chief Guest, the Director, and other dignitaries. The programme was attended by scientists, faculty members, research scholars, and staff of the institute. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr Gurleen Kour, Scientist, whereas Dr Asha Chaubey, Chief Scientist, presented the formal vote of thanks.
