Doha: Science India Forum GCC chapter recently celebrated the National Science Day, India, to commemorate the ‘Raman Effect’ by the great Indian physicist Sir C V Raman on February 28, 1928, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930. The theme for National Science Day 2021 was ‘Future of Science Technology & Innovation (STI): Impact on Education, Skills, and Work.’
An eminent scientist Dr. S Chandrasekhar, Director Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT- Hyderabad), graced the occasion as Chief Guest and delivered the keynote speech on “Science without Boundaries for Sustainability.”
In the welcome address, the President of SIF Qatar, Dipak, shared some of the pioneering work done by Sir C V Raman in science. Sir Raman was the first Asian and first non-white to receive any Noble prize in science.
Raman had an unbound attraction towards colour, sound, nature, and interest in the scientific exploration of the world around us.
He explored the immense knowledge of Indians in ancient musical traditions and presented physics behind sound produced by musical instruments.
He was the first to investigate the harmonic nature of the sound of Indian drums like Tabla, Mridangam, and string instruments like Veena and Sitar. SIF, UAE President Dr. Satish Krishnan, presented an overview of the mission and vision of SIF.
Vice President of SIF, Kuwait Mahesh, introduced the chief guest Dr. Chandrasekhar, a Fellow of premier scientific organizations- National Academy of Science, Indian Academy of Sciences, and Indian National Science Academy.
His significant contributions in Organic chemistry are commendable, with more than 285 publications and more than 7000 citations. 80 students have been awarded Ph.D. under his guidance.
He has received several honors, including the Eminent Scientist Award, National prize for chemical research 2012, and CSIR award 2014.
Dr. Chandrasekhar paid tributes to the Noble Laureate and Bharat Ratna, Sir C V Raman.
In his inspiring speech, he focused on significant contributions by Raman. In his speech on “Science without boundaries for Sustainability”, he said that despite people being separated by different countries, different continents, still everyone is well connected and united through science.
He cited an example that a drug developed in one country is accessible in another country in this pandemic. Science is one, and through science, we are all united.
He further guided participating students that science must always innovate to make living affordable and sustainable for all.
The session was well received by over 430 participants, including academicians, professionals, teachers, and students, and culminated in an interactive Q&A session that triggered young minds to develop curiosity and love for scientific research.
