NOPR Collection:
http://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/64820
2026-10-20T02:04:37ZFrom Vigyan Jathas to Science Festivals: A New Avatar of Public Engagement with Science in India
http://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/64822
Title: From Vigyan Jathas to Science Festivals: A New Avatar of Public Engagement with Science in India
Authors: IQBAL, SARAH HYDER
Abstract: Science festivals have emerged as pivotal platforms for
popularizing and celebrating science, engaging with the public, and
showcasing the latest advances in science and technology. Inspired
by the inaugural science festival in Edinburgh, contemporary
festivals in India represent a modern iteration of the Vigyan Jathas
organised by the People's Science Movements (PSM) in the 1960s.
This article traces the evolution of public engagement with science
in India, from the grassroots efforts of Vigyan Jathas to today's
large-scale science festivals. It examines the key features of these
festivals, the opportunities they present for science communication,
and their impact on public engagement. Additionally, the paper
explores the roles of science festivals in career inspiration,
intergenerational learning, promoting public dialogue on scientific
issues, and embedding science within the cultural fabric of host
cities. By analysing these aspects, the article aims to provide a
preliminary overview of the current landscape and future directions
for science festivals in India.
Page(s): 82-932024-11-01T00:00:00ZInstitutional Museums and Archives for Disseminating India’s Technological History: An Example from CSIR-Central Glass & Ceramic Research Institute
http://nopr.niscpr.res.in/handle/123456789/64821
Title: Institutional Museums and Archives for Disseminating India’s Technological History: An Example from CSIR-Central Glass & Ceramic Research Institute
Authors: K, JITHIN JACOB; BANDYOPADHYAY, DEBASHIS
Abstract: Museums constitute an important tool in modern science
communication. Archives on the other hand provide the key
content on which institutional museums are usually built. Taken
together, archive and museums play a seminal role in preserving
heritage and disseminating an institution’s niche to the wider
audience. The Atma Ram Memorial Museum & Archives at the
CSIR-Central Glass & Ceramic Research Institute, Kolkata not
only traces the evolution of CSIR-CGCRI but also intertwines it
with that of CSIR; and contextualizes it against the technological
history of India. Aimed for the students, public and researchers a
like, the initiative is one of its kind within the CSIR.
Page(s): 94-1092024-11-01T00:00:00Z