New Delhi, February 28, 2024: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) commemorated National Science Day 2024 with a series of engaging activities across its laboratories and establishments, underscoring its unwavering commitment to scientific exploration, innovation, and national security. The day, celebrated annually on February 28th, marks the discovery of the “Raman Effect” by Indian scientist Sir C.V. Raman in 1928, a groundbreaking discovery that earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics two years later.
This year’s National Science Day theme, aligned with the Prime Minister’s ambitious vision of transforming India into a ‘Viksit Bharat’, resonated deeply within DRDO’s celebrations. The organization recognizes the crucial role that scientific advancements play in propelling national progress and safeguarding its borders.
The core objective of National Science Day is to cultivate a spirit of scientific inquiry among the public, encourage scientific research, and promote the responsible application of science for societal benefit. DRDO’s diverse activities throughout the day embodied this spirit, fostering a vibrant culture of scientific exploration and collaboration within its ranks.
A special function held at DRDO Bhawan in New Delhi marked the central event. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of, the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, presided over the function, while Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, served as the Chief Guest. The event was mirrored by similar celebrations held across DRDO’s numerous laboratories and establishments throughout the country, encompassing a wider audience of scientists and researchers.
The program featured a keynote address by Prof. Sood titled “Cracking an Age-Old Thermodynamic Puzzle in Micro Heat Engines,” delving into the complexities and potential of miniature power generation. Additionally, Dr M.A. Maluk Mohamed, Co-founder and VP of Research at M/s Twin Health, Chennai, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on “Precision Health Management using Digital Twin,” exploring the implications of this technology for individuals with chronic metabolic diseases.
DRDO scientists actively participated in the event, with a total of 39 research papers submitted from various DRDO labs. This enthusiastic response exemplifies the depth and breadth of scientific talent nurtured within the organization. Three outstanding papers were selected for presentation at the central function, with the respective researchers being felicitated by Prof. Sood in recognition of their exceptional contributions.
The event transcended informative lectures and presentations. The DRDO song, specially composed for the occasion, was unveiled by the Chairman of DRDO, acknowledging the dedication and contributions of the organization’s scientists and their unwavering spirit of innovation. Furthermore, a monograph titled “Innovative Practices in Product Development through the Eyes of a Product Developer” authored by Dr. A.K. Chakrabarti, former Director of DRDL, Hyderabad, was released by the Principal Scientific Advisor. This book launch served as a valuable knowledge-sharing exercise, preserving and disseminating valuable insights gained through experience within DRDO. The Defence Science Forum (DSF) serves as a vital platform within DRDO, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among scientists from diverse disciplines. This forum plays a crucial role in identifying and planning interdisciplinary projects, drawing upon the expertise of various scientific fields to address complex challenges and advance technological innovation within the defence sector. The DSF’s role is integral to ensuring that DRDO’s research and development efforts remain at the forefront of scientific advancement.
