National Science Day Talk 27.02.2026



Opening Reflection: Learning from Two Extraordinary Scientists

Before I begin today’s talk, I would like to reflect on the lives of two remarkable women who fundamentally changed the course of science — Marie Curie and Rosalind Franklin.

Marie Curie

Marie Curie

Marie Curie was a pioneering physicist and chemist whose work on radioactivity redefined our understanding of matter and energy. She became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and remains the only person to receive Nobel Prizes in two different scientific disciplines. Her life represents courage, perseverance, and dedication to scientific truth.

Rosalind Franklin

Rosalind Franklin

Rosalind Franklin was a brilliant X-ray crystallographer whose work was crucial to revealing the double helical structure of DNA. Her scientific precision and commitment to rigorous experimentation laid the foundation for one of the greatest discoveries in modern biology. Today, she is recognized as a central figure in molecular science.

As we move forward in today’s discussion, let us remember that scientific progress is built not only on intelligence, but also on resilience, discipline, and integrity — qualities exemplified by these two global icons.

Indian Scientific Icons: Visionaries Who Shaped a Nation

After reflecting on global pioneers, let us now turn our attention to scientific icons from India — individuals whose discoveries and leadership not only advanced science but also strengthened the intellectual identity of our nation.

Indian science has produced extraordinary minds who combined deep theoretical insight with practical national commitment. Their work did not remain confined to laboratories; it contributed to education, space exploration, nuclear research, physics, and technology that continues to shape modern India.

C. V. Raman

C. V. Raman

Sir C. V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928 marked India’s arrival on the global scientific stage. His work on light scattering earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, and it laid foundations for modern spectroscopy.

Homi J. Bhabha

Homi J. Bhabha

Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha is regarded as the father of India’s nuclear program. He built institutions that strengthened scientific research in independent India and emphasized self-reliance in technology.

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, known as the “Missile Man of India,” played a crucial role in India’s space and defense programs. Beyond his scientific achievements, he inspired millions of students with a vision of a developed India rooted in knowledge and innovation.

These icons remind us that science is not merely about discovery — it is also about nation building, responsibility, and inspiring future generations.

Indian Women in Science: Pioneers of Courage and Contribution

Having reflected on global icons and national scientific leaders, let us now turn our attention to Indian women scientists — trailblazers who shaped Indian science with resilience, brilliance, and unwavering dedication.

Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal

E. K. Janaki Ammal

Dr. Edavalath Kakkat Janaki Ammal was one of India’s first women botanists and cytogeneticists. Her work in plant breeding and cytology contributed to improved sugarcane varieties suited to Indian conditions.

Dr. Asima Chatterjee

Asima Chatterjee

Dr. Asima Chatterjee was a distinguished chemist known for her work on anti-malarial and anti-epileptic drugs, demonstrating how chemistry can directly serve society.

Dr. Tessy Thomas

Tessy Thomas

Dr. Tessy Thomas, often referred to as the “Missile Woman of India,” played a leading role in India’s Agni missile program, symbolizing leadership and technical excellence in high-technology domains.

Dr. Gagandeep Kang

Gagandeep Kang

Dr. Gagandeep Kang is a globally recognized microbiologist whose research in infectious diseases and vaccines has strengthened public health in India.

Indian Women in Science: Expanding the Horizon

Let us also remember a few more pioneers whose work shaped meteorology, biochemistry, and space science.

Dr. Anna Mani

Anna Mani

Dr. Anna Mani was a distinguished physicist and meteorologist who contributed to India’s meteorological observations and renewable energy instrumentation, especially solar radiation and wind measurements.

Dr. Kamala Sohonie

Kamala Sohonie

Dr. Kamala Sohonie was among the earliest Indian women to break barriers in scientific research. Her work in biochemistry and nutrition contributed to public health and inspired future generations.

Dr. Kalpana Chawla

Kalpana Chawla

Dr. Kalpana Chawla became the first woman of Indian origin to travel to space. Her journey continues to inspire young minds to dream beyond limitations.

Together, these women represent diverse branches of science, yet they share a common thread: courage, persistence, and a commitment to knowledge.

Women Powering Viksit Bharat

When we look at the history of science, we see a powerful truth — progress is driven by courage, curiosity, and commitment. From Marie Curie’s work in radioactivity to Rosalind Franklin’s precision in X-ray science, women have shaped the foundations of modern science.

India carries this legacy forward through women who transformed research, technology, health, and space exploration. Their work is not just personal achievement — it is a contribution to national development.

Scientific Foundations

Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal strengthened plant genetics. Dr. Kamala Sohonie advanced biochemistry and nutrition. Dr. Anna Mani strengthened meteorological science and renewable energy measurements. These pioneers built systems that continue to support national progress.

Technology and Societal Strength

Dr. Tessy Thomas contributed to national technology programs. Dr. Kalpana Chawla inspired a generation toward aerospace and space science. Dr. Gagandeep Kang strengthened public health and vaccine research.

The Vision of Viksit Bharat

The vision of “Viksit Bharat” is not only economic growth. It is scientific leadership, technological independence, sustainability, innovation, and inclusive progress. Women scientists are central to this transformation.

Women Powering Viksit Bharat: The Role of Nanoscience and Sustainable Energy

The vision of Viksit Bharat is deeply connected to innovation and sustainability. In the 21st century, two transformative forces shaping this vision are nanoscience and sustainable energy technologies.

Across India, women researchers are contributing to advanced materials research, energy storage, hydrogen generation, solar energy, battery technology, and climate-resilient solutions. Their work strengthens India’s scientific ecosystem and accelerates the transition toward clean energy.

Nanoscience as a Foundation for Energy Innovation

By designing materials at the nanoscale, we can enhance catalytic efficiency, improve charge transport, increase active surface area, and optimize electrochemical performance — principles central to water splitting, supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, and emerging solid-state battery technologies.

Sustainable Energy and National Development

Green hydrogen, advanced batteries, renewable energy integration, and carbon-neutral technologies are essential pillars of a developed India. Through interdisciplinary research in nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and materials science, women researchers are actively contributing to these priorities.

From Inspiration to Implementation


The legacy of earlier pioneers continues today in modern laboratories where researchers develop functional nanomaterials for real-world energy applications. With this perspective, let us now explore how nanomaterials and electrochemical systems can drive sustainable energy solutions for the future. 

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