The National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, in collaboration with the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur inaugurated a two-day national workshop from 14 October to 15 October 2025, “Communicate to Connect: Science for All,” today at CSIR-IHBT, Palampur. The event brought together leading scientists, communicators, and innovators to explore new strategies for science outreach and inclusive communication.

The inaugural session featured insightful addresses by distinguished speakers. Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, in her welcome address underscored the importance of informing students and stakeholders about the breadth of scientific research taking place across India, emphasizing the role of scientists and acknowledging research from remote regions like Palampur. Shri C. B. Singh, Chief Scientist & Head, Popular Science Division, CSIR-NIScPR, highlighted the workshop’s goal of building a collaborative science community and elaborated on its various programs.

Shri Balendu Dadhich, Director, Microsoft India, stressed the necessity of democratizing science communication by combating misinformation, ensuring fact-checked content, and providing oversight in the age of artificial intelligence.

Dr. Manoj Kumar Patairiya, Former Head & Adviser, NCSTC, DST, Delhi highlighted the confusion caused by conflicting COVID-19 research and called for an "army of communicators" to bring verified scientific information from labs to the public. Dr. Patairiya further underscored the importance of two-way communication between the public and scientific community, stating, "There should be a continuous flow of knowledge both from the land to the labs and from the labs back to the land."

Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, Director, CSIR-IHBT, Palampur, emphasized the vital role science plays in every aspect of life and stressed that bridging communication gaps is key to effective science communication. He stated, "Scientific understanding combined with empathy and feelings represents the true spirit of science."

The chief guest Prof. K. G. Suresh, Director, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, highlighted the importance of cultivating scientific temper through two-way communication and integrating science communication in all aspects of governance beyond just science and technology departments. He noted the lack of adequate communication about scientific benefits in public initiatives like sanitation. Sharing lessons from the polio campaign, Prof. Suresh emphasized the role of local influencers and medical practitioners, stating that effective engagement with these groups helped dispel myths and increase vaccine acceptance. He stressed that such inclusive communication strategies are crucial for societal benefit.

The day continued with a brainstorming session addressing science popularisation, media’s evolving role, women’s participation in science communication, and outreach to deprived communities. Notable speakers included Dr. Chandra Mohan Nautiyal, Former Consultant, Science Communication, INSA, New Delhi; Shri Hasan Jawaid Khan, Former Editor, Science Reporter & Chief Scientist (Retd.), CSIR-NIScPR; Dr. Suman Ray, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR; and Dr. Manish Mohan Gore, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR.

Workshop sessions focused on the role of scientists in communication, the importance of accurate scientific information, and diverse formats such as social media, science fiction, poetry, and electronic media. On day two student scientist connect program on popular science writing and participants presentation will also be organised in the workshop.

The workshop stressed upon CSIR's commitment to fostering a rational, inclusive society through innovative science communication, bridging communities, and empowering marginalized groups throughout India. It also recommended establishing robust public participation and feedback mechanisms to continuously improve scientific innovations and discoveries.

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NKR/AK

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