CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) organised a Platinum Jubilee Ceremony to commemorate 75 years of its popular Hindi science magazine, Vigyan Pragati. Launched in 1952, the magazine has emerged as an important platform for communicating scientific knowledge to the public in simple and accessible Hindi.
The anniversary programme not only celebrated the magazine’s long-standing contribution to science communication but also examined how emerging technologies, artificial intelligence and new digital platforms are changing the way scientific information is shared with society.
Focus on India’s Scientific Heritage
Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice-Chancellor of Nalanda University and Chief Guest at the event, spoke about the Nalanda knowledge tradition, the place of science in Indian culture and India’s scientific progress. He also highlighted the importance of notable articles published in Vigyan Pragati and the magazine’s contribution to creating wider public engagement with science.
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, welcomed the participants and described the magazine’s 75-year journey as a significant chapter in India’s science communication history. She noted that Vigyan Pragati has consistently worked to bring scientific knowledge closer to ordinary readers while encouraging scientific awareness and a rational outlook.
Dr. Vishwa Mohan Katoch, former Secretary of the Department of Health Research and former Director General of ICMR, highlighted CSIR’s contribution to India’s scientific and industrial development. He emphasised that science provides an important foundation for evidence-based decision-making and stressed the continued relevance of scientific temper.
Prof. K. G. Suresh, Director of India Habitat Centre, connected the magazine’s launch in 1952 with the post-Independence development of the country. He said its sustained efforts to promote scientific awareness align with the constitutional emphasis on developing scientific temper and remain relevant to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Students Engage in Science Communication
A workshop was also held at CSIR-NIScPR on August 21, ahead of the main ceremony. More than 50 school students from Delhi participated in activities designed to encourage creative engagement with science.
Science writer Neha Tripathi conducted practical sessions on science poetry and cartoons, while students took part in the ‘Jigyasa’ science quiz. Dr. B. K. Tyagi, former Scientist-F and science communicator, interacted with students during a session titled ‘The Exciting World of Science Stories’, exploring the relationship between scientific ideas and imagination. Participants were also presented with certificates.
Special Publications Released
The August 2026 special issue of Vigyan Pragati was released during the Platinum Jubilee event. CSIR-NIScPR publications Manav Swasthya Aur Nirogi Jeevan and Romanchak Vigyan Kathayen, along with bilingual information booklets, were also unveiled.
The programme featured the announcement of winners of the ‘Vigyan Pragati @75’ Science Story and Science Cartoon Competitions. A video documenting the magazine’s journey was screened, while members of its editorial and design teams were felicitated.
Exploring the Future of Science Communication
A panel discussion titled ‘75 Years of Vigyan Pragati: Legacy, Discourse and Future’ examined the magazine’s evolution and the changing requirements of science communication. The session was chaired by Shri Mahendra Kumar Gupta, Joint Secretary, CSIR, and moderated by Dr. Manish Mohan Gore, Scientist-D and Editor of Vigyan Pragati.
Separate dialogue sessions explored the use of cartoons for communicating scientific concepts and the relationship between human creativity and artificial intelligence in science writing. Speakers discussed the opportunities and challenges created by visual media, AI and other emerging communication technologies.
Dr. Shubhankar Mishra, Joint Director, Department of Education, Government of India and former Deputy Secretary-General of the World Hindi Secretariat, Mauritius, delivered the special guest address.
Dr. Manish Mohan Gore underlined that the magazine’s editorial approach places greater emphasis on the quality and relevance of articles rather than the prominence of individual authors. He said engaging and well-selected subjects have been central to the publication’s popularity.
The event concluded with a call for science communication to become more inclusive, creative and adaptable to new technologies. Scientists, students, officers and employees of CSIR-NIScPR participated in the celebrations, marking 75 years of Vigyan Pragati and its continuing role in connecting science with society.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
