The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research - National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) successfully organized a one-day workshop on the "Need and Significance of Communicating Science in India" at its premises in New Delhi. The event aimed to evaluate existing efforts in science communication in Indian languages and explore strategies to enhance public engagement with science across diverse linguistic communities of India.

In her welcome address, Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, emphasized the crucial role of science communication in bridging the gap between scientific research and society. She highlighted the importance of communicating science in regional languages to ensure inclusivity and broader outreach, stating, "True scientific progress is inclusive. Promoting science in regional languages ensures that knowledge reaches every corner of society." Dr. Naresh Kumar, Head, PME, provided introductory remarks, reinforcing the need to disseminate scientific knowledge in regional languages. Dr. Manish Mohan Gore, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR and Primcipal Investigator of Indian language project said that public engagement is essential to percolate the authentic information of science and technology in regional languages of the country.

The workshop featured insightful discussions by esteemed speakers from various scientific and media institutions. Shri Deepak Kumar, Assistant Director, Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology, addressed "Current Form, Problems, and Utility of Science Terminology." Shri Balendu Sharma, Digital Media Communication Head, Microsoft, provided insights into "The Present and Future of AI and the Digital World." Dr. Santosh Kumar Shukla, Executive Secretary, National Academy of Sciences, India, discussed "Science Writing and Popular Science Literature in Indian Languages," while Ms. Neha Tripathi, a Digital and Social Media Expert, elaborated on "Different Sources of Scientific Content and Their Authenticity."

Further, Dr. Krishna Nand Pandey, Former Scientist-F, ICMR, highlighted "The Role of Health Communication in Creating Awareness in Indian Society." Ms. Ankita Mishra, Editor, NRDC, explored "The Utility and Importance of Print Media in Science Popularization in the Social Media Era."

The afternoon session featured regional perspectives. Shri Shivanandan, Programme Executive, All India Radio, shared insights into "Radio and Agricultural Science Programmes: Nature and Possibilities." Shri Samir Ganguly, Science Writer, highlighted "Social References of Science Fiction Stories."

The workshop provided a dynamic platform for experts, communicators, and participants to engage in meaningful interactions. Discussions yielded policy recommendations to strengthen science communication in Indian languages, emphasizing increased academia-government-media collaboration and strategies for capacity building among science communicators. The event drew 40 participants, including faculty and students from Banaras Hindu University, Central Sanskrit University, Gurugram University, and CSIR-NIScPR, along with scientists, researchers, and policymakers. A total ofo8 speakers participated, with 06 joining online and 02 attending in person, fostering a rich exchange of ideas.

The event concluded with an interactive session and a Q&A round with students, followed by closing remarks and a vote of thanks by Dr. Manish Mohan Gore, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR, and coordinator of the workshop. The workshop reaffirmed CSIR-NIScPR’s commitment to promoting accessible and inclusive science communication in India.

About CSIR-NIScPR

The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR) is a constituent laboratory under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. It is dedicated to science communication, policy research, and the promotion of scientific awareness among the public.

*****

NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2103558) Visitor Counter : 1090