: Mumbai, 8th August 2025

The ICMR–National Institute of Immunohaematology (ICMR–NIIH) successfully organised the S.H.I.N.E (Science & Health Innovation for the Nextgen Explorers) programme on 8th August 2025, welcoming bright young students from Class 9 of schools located near the Institute in Mumbai. This initiative was part of a nationwide open-day event conducted by the Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in alignment with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call for students to “spend one day as a scientist.”

At ICMR–NIIH, 70 students and four accompanying teachers from K.M.S. Dr. Shirodkar High School and Social Service League High School participated in a guided tour of the Institute’s state-of-the-art biomedical research laboratories. The students experienced interactive demonstrations, watched science and health awareness films, and engaged in question-and-answer sessions with scientists. The programme was further enlivened by the presence of Dr. Curio, a friendly mascot who guided the students throughout the sessions.

Secretary, Department of Health Research & Director General, ICMR, Dr. Rajiv Bahl addressed the students through a video message and stated, “ICMR played a crucial role during COVID-19 by developing vaccines, accurate testing and treatment methods. We invite students to visit our labs to see how science drives innovation and creates new knowledge and technologies.” Speaking on the occasion, Director of ICMR–NIIH, Dr. Manisha Madkaikar, emphasized the importance of curiosity as the seed of innovation and expressed hope that the SHINE programme would inspire young students to envision themselves as future scientists and innovators contributing to a healthier and more prosperous nation. Students shared their excitement and appreciation for the initiative, with one participant stating that it was the first time they had witnessed real laboratory research, inspiring thoughts of becoming a scientist in the future, while another described the sessions as fun and educational, enjoying the opportunity to see science in action. Anjali Lokegaonkar, a teacher from one of the participating schools, highlighted the value of such opportunities in guiding students toward a bright future, noting that when they were younger, such exposure was unavailable, and expressing gratitude to ICMR for organizing the event with hopes to bring more students next time.

Students were shown short films highlighting key ICMR initiatives such as the development of Covaxin, the iDRONE project, tuberculosis elimination efforts, and the Vishanu Yudh Abhyas pandemic preparedness drill. Additional presentations included videos on ICMR–NIIH and ICMR–CRMCH, Chandrapur, demonstrations of point-of-care testing technologies for diseases like haemophilia and Von Willebrand disease, innovative pediatric immunology research, and various outreach activities. Guided laboratory visits showcased advanced diagnostic and research techniques, while research exhibitions and poster walks displayed the Institute’s work in immunohaematology and public health.

The event concluded with the distribution of participation certificates, souvenirs and group photographs, leaving students with lasting memories and renewed enthusiasm for science. The SHINE programme reiterates ICMR’s commitment to engaging with young learners and building a strong pipeline of talent for India’s future in science, health research and innovation.

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Edgar Coelho/Parshuram Kor

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