Mangaluru: Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) celebrated National Science Day 2026 through its Research & Development Cell and Institution’s Innovation Council under the theme “Women in Science Catalysing Viksit Bharat”. The programme highlighted scientific curiosity, inclusive innovation and the collective responsibility of researchers in nation-building.

National Science Day is observed annually to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Nobel Laureate C. V. Raman. The celebration began with a reflection on the significance of the day, recalling Raman’s Nobel Prize-winning discovery and underscoring that true national development rests on fearless inquiry, knowledge creation and sustained scientific innovation.

The ceremony commenced with a solemn prayer led by Mr Mohammed Ashiq, Research Scholar, YEN-REFINED, YIASCM, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp by dignitaries.

Distinguished guest address

The Chief Guest, Dr Subhra Chakraborty, Distinguished Scientist and former Director of the National Institute for Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), delivered the keynote address. The session was presided over by Dr K S Gangadhara Somayaji, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Yenepoya University, in the presence of Dr B H Sripathi Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor; Dr Aswini Dutt R, Registrar; and Dr Rekha P D, Director of the Research & Development Cell.

Dr Rekha P D welcomed the gathering and introduced the Chief Guest.

Dr Subhra Chakraborty recalled the scientific legacy of Sir C. V. Raman, whose discovery, achieved through dedicated experimentation in modest laboratory conditions, revolutionised spectroscopy. She noted that since 1986, February 28 has been observed as National Science Day in India to promote scientific temper among citizens.

Focusing on the theme “Women in Science Catalysing Viksit Bharat”, she highlighted the contributions of women scientists to diverse fields of research. Referring to pioneering Indian innovators such as Dr Kiran Mazumdar Shaw and key figures in India’s space research programmes, she stressed that holistic national progress is achieved when men and women collaborate in equal partnership.

She encouraged young researchers to pursue excellence through mentorship and teamwork, emphasising that effective collaboration between students and research guides is critical for impactful discoveries. She also observed that while India is a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing, the nation must now strengthen its innovation ecosystem to become a source of original scientific inventions.

Recognising research excellence

To motivate and acknowledge research achievements, awards were presented across five categories: Best Department, Best Faculty Researcher, Best Faculty Innovator, Best Student Researcher and Best Research Centre.

Seventeen students from Yenepoya Medical College and Yenepoya Dental College who received ICMR STS fellowships were felicitated. Two students who secured MD/MS Thesis Grant Financial Support 2025 were honoured. Ten students awarded STSH Fellowships 2025 from Yenepoya Homoeopathy Medical College and seven SPARSH Fellowship recipients from Yenepoya Ayurveda Medical College were also recognised.

Additionally, 12 events were organised under student and faculty categories across five clusters of the Institution’s Innovation Council, led by the Yenepoya Incubation Centre. Winners of these events were honoured with awards.

Vice Chancellor’s presidential address

In his presidential address, Dr K S Gangadhara Somayaji inspired the gathering by emphasising passion as the driving force behind research excellence. He noted that while researchers often cite time constraints, genuine dedication enables exceptional outcomes even with limited resources.

He highlighted the university’s support system, including infrastructure and research grants available to students and faculty members. Stressing that research must translate into tangible societal benefits, he pointed to the high cost of medical procedures such as ear transplants as areas where focused research could make treatments more accessible and affordable.

He concluded that purpose-driven and collaborative scientific efforts are essential for global betterment and the realisation of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Concluding reflections

Dr Ashwini S Shetty, Director of Outreach Activities, proposed the vote of thanks, appreciating the collective efforts behind the successful celebration. The programme concluded with the National Anthem.

The celebration reaffirmed that National Science Day is not merely a commemoration but a call to courage — the courage to question, experiment, innovate and rethink. Yenepoya University reiterated its commitment to nurturing scientific temper, inclusive research and transformative innovation for societal advancement.