Women in Science Are Catalysts of Viksit Bharat: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Speaking at the National Science Day Celebration 2026 at the INSA Auditorium in New Delhi, he emphasized that scientific growth and national development are inseparable, and inclusive participation is essential to sustain India’s innovation momentum.

Addressing the theme “Women in Science: Catalyzing Viksit Bharat”, Dr. Singh highlighted the growing representation of women in research, leadership, and innovation sectors. He stressed that empowering young students, particularly girls, through structured exposure to laboratories and research institutions will create a multiplier effect in the years ahead.

Several initiatives were launched during the programme, including the Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster and the ANRF–Venture Centre Outreach Initiative. The Mission Innovation India Report and the book Indigenous Architecture of Northeast India were released. A DST‑supported copper‑doped nano titania coating technology for heritage conservation was transferred to industry, marking a significant step in translating laboratory research into societal applications.

The Minister underlined that India’s scientific advancement must be measured not only by global rankings but by its capacity to deliver solutions for its people. He called for mission‑driven science with societal relevance, urging institutions to deepen collaboration and maintain momentum beyond National Science Day.

Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, and Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of DBT, also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of innovation clusters, interdisciplinary research, and biotechnology integration with national missions.

National Science Day 2026 concluded with a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to empowering women scientists, strengthening indigenous innovation, preserving cultural heritage, and nurturing the next generation of researchers in alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.