In 1928, Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman discovered the phenomenon of Raman Effect and for his remarkable discovery, he was awarded Nobel Prize in 1930 as the first Indian to win a Nobel Prize in science. To mark this discovery, National Science Day or Rashtriya Vigyan Diwas is celebrated on February 28 every year. This day reminds the importance of science and its application to underscore the essentials in tackling the world’s most pressing challenges. The day also reminds the importance of scientific knowledge and innovation for stronger partnerships between science, policy and society.
In 1986, the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) requested the Government of India to designate February 28 as National Science Day, which was accepted and thus the first National Science Day was celebrated in 1987. This day also commemorates the role of science in addressing environmental challenges like climate change, pollution and resource depletion.
The theme for 2026, “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat” includes recognizing women’s roles in sustainable development, social change and climate change research. The theme also focuses the role of women in clean energy, green environment aligning with global efforts while on India become a Viksit Bharat in 2047.
Science is the primary tool and indispensable for understanding and solving the pressing environmental challenges. It not only enhances our understanding of the natural world but also provides the tools and strategies to protect it. As environmental issues become increasingly complex, the role of science will continue to grow, guiding humanity toward a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with nature.
Science plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing environmental problems. By studying the natural world, science can develop solutions to protect our planet, its resources and future. Science study the causes and effects of climate change to develop strategies for mitigation and adaptation. On biodiversity conservation, science work to identify and protect species and their habitats.
Pollution being one of the biggest challenge, science has developed technologies to reduce pollution and improve air and water quality. Sustainable resource management is also a field that science studies to ensure a long-term availability of natural resources. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydro power to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels is also a human dream for a green future.
When we act to reduce, reuse, recycle, the scientific knowledge is required. Water conservation, energy conservation or for any other sort of energy-efficient appliances, we need science. Environmental conservation has become one of the most pressing global priorities as humanity grapples with many issues and challenges. At the heart of effective conservation efforts lies science -a systematic approach to understand the natural world. Science plays a pivotal role in identifying environmental problems, understanding their causes and consequences, and developing strategies to mitigate or solve them.
Science provides the tools and methodologies to monitor and analyze environmental changes. By studying atmospheric gases, ocean temperatures, and ice core samples, science has established how human activities are significantly contributing to the global warming. Climate models predict future changes, helping policymakers prepare and adapt. Ecologists study the relationships between organisms and their environments. Such research is crucial for understanding the impacts of habitat loss, invasive species and overexploitation on biodiversity. Environmental chemists detect and measure pollutants and helps to assess risks to human health and ecosystems.
Science informs the developed practical solutions to environmental problems. Renewable energy technologies advances to led more efficient solar panels, wind turbines and energy storage systems, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The genetic engineering and biotechnology techniques are used to preserve endangered species, such as cloning, gene banking and assisted reproduction. While trying to feed the huge 8.3 billion people, sustainable agricultural techniques, the agronomists research to enhance the crop rotation, soil health and pest management to enhance productivity aligned with environmentally friendly approaches.
Scientific findings are incorporated into educational curricula, fostering a new generation that is informed about environmental issues. Satellite imagery and geographic information systems allow for large-scale monitoring of deforestation, urban sprawl and habitat fragmentation. Microbiologists develop methods using organisms to clean up contaminated environments, such as oil spills or heavy metal pollution. Artificial Intelligence through machine learning algorithms help to predict environmental trends and optimize the disaster risk reduction.
But while science has significantly contributed so much, environmental challenges remain as an unending story which require integrated approaches, combine the natural and social sciences. There are always data gaps, especially in developing countries thereby lacking in effective conservation and planning. Scientific research often requires substantial investment and funding to enhance progress.
Whether we realise it or not, science is an integral part of our everyday life, from brushing in the morning to the mattresses we sleep. There can be no technological innovation without a plausible understanding of the scientific context. Our lifestyles and hygienic practices are well influenced by the scientific knowledge.
The role of science is inevitable in our everyday life, shaping how we live, work and interact with others. Therefore, apart from being a day to commemorate, C. V. Raman’s groundbreaking discovery, this day highlights the vital role of science in societal progress and a sustainable environment. By understanding the role of science in environment and taking action, we can protect the planet and future generations.
Dr. N. Munal Meitei
Environmentalist, presently working as DFO/Chandel, email-nmunall@ yahoo.in
