CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) Jammu, celebrated National Science Day with great enthusiasm and a spirit of discovery and innovation on its campus, bringing together scientists, research scholars, students and innovators. The day is observed to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Nobel Laureate C. V. Raman. The daylong event was organised under the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat,” reflecting the institute’s commitment to strengthening scientific temper and advancing innovation in alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047.

The event was graced by Dr. Madhu Dikshit, JC Bose National Fellow, Distinguished Scientist Chair (Ministry of AYUSH), National Science Chair of ANRF and former Director of CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow as the chief guest. Delivering the National Science Day Lecture entitled “Harnessing Women’s Potential for Scientific Growth”, Dr. Dikshit expressed her gratitude for being part of the celebration and congratulated CSIR-IIIM for its contributions to national development, including its leadership in the Aroma Mission and integrative healthcare research. Speaking on the theme of Women in Science, she highlighted that women constitute nearly 43 percent of India’s STEM students, one of the highest proportions globally. However, she noted that representation declines at advanced research and leadership levels due to social and structural barriers.

She emphasised the need for mentorship, institutional support, exposure to conferences and leadership opportunities to bridge this gap. Diversity in science, she said, leads to broader perspectives and innovative solutions. Citing examples from the COVID-19 pandemic, she underlined how collaborative and inclusive scientific efforts can effectively address national challenges. Dr. Dikshit encouraged students to pursue science with passion and resilience, reminding them that determination and confidence are essential for success. She concluded with a call to unlock the full potential of women in STEM to accelerate innovation, economic growth and India’s global scientific competitiveness.

Earlier, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM in his welcome address, described the occasion as a moment to honour the discovery of a brilliant Indian Physicist Sir C.V. Raman for the ground breaking discovery of the “Raman Effect.” More than 350 students from 13 schools across the Jammu region including Bhartiya Vidya Mandir High School Hiranagar, Springdales English School Changran, Kathua, Jammu Sanskriti School, Jammu, PM Shri JNV Gharota Jammu-1, Army Public School Kaluchak, PM Shri JNV Samba, PM Shri JNV Udhampur, Heritage School Jammu, RRL High School, Maharishi Vidya Mandhir Sr. Sec. School, PM Shri KV No 2 Akhnoor, Bhartiya Vidya Mandir Sr. Sec. School Ambphalla, Jammu participated in various competitions and laboratory visits. A total of 230 students attended laboratory visits, witnessing ongoing research in natural products, medicinal chemistry, biotechnology and drug discovery. The programme included a Science Model Exhibition Competition, Quiz Competition, Poster Presentation and Extempore Competition.

During the event, winners of various competitions were also felicitated by the Chief Guest, Director and other dignitaries. The programme was also attended by Er. Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist, Dr. Shashank Kr. Singh, Chief Scientist, other senior scientists, faculty members, research scholars and staff of the institute. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Gurleen Kour, Scientist, whereas Dr. Asha Chaubey, Chief Scientist presented the formal vote of thanks.