Shillong: In a bid to commemorate National Science Day, North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), an autonomous body set up under the Ministry of Science & Technology, in collaboration with Smart Village Movement, organised a programme on February 25 at the NECTAR STEM Lab in Meghalaya’s Shillong.
National Science Day is observed annually on February 28. Altogether 29 students from different schools participated and 11 projects were showcased.
With the official theme “ Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat”, the programme highlighted the contributions of women in Science. It also encouraged students to explore opportunities in STEM education.
Students from the lab actively participated in engaging science activities, simple experiments, and creative demonstrations designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Hands-on learning remained a key focus of the programme, showcasing how practical learning can boost the students’ understanding of scientific knowledge.
The STEM Lab, which has been operational for over a year, continues to provide students with opportunities to explore science and technology through experiential learning that goes beyond classroom teaching.
Delivering the welcome address at the National Science Day programme, Arun Kumar Sarma, Director General of North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), said, “National Science Day reminds us that science is not confined to laboratories; it is part of our everyday lives. Sir C. V. Raman’s journey shows that curiosity, dedication, and constant engagement with simple scientific ideas can lead to extraordinary discoveries.”
Sarma added, “His legacy continues to inspire us to build self-reliance in science and technology. This day should not be just a celebration, but a commitment, especially for students to question, explore, and take full advantage of the opportunities available to contribute to India’s scientific and technological progress.”
Gracing the occasion as chief guest, Tolino Chishi, Assistant Commissioner of East Khasi Hills District, said, “As we celebrate National Science Day and reflect on this year’s theme of Women in Science, we must recognise a critical gap. While nearly 40–45% of STEM graduates are women, less than 20% are represented in research roles. At a time when we stand at the edge of a technology-driven world, we cannot afford to leave half our population out of the conversation. The issue is not about blame, it is about representation.”
She added, “Bringing more women into STEM is not a value addition; it is a necessary correction. A system that does not account for 50% of the population cannot be a model system. True progress toward a developed and inclusive India requires equal participation in science, research, and innovation. National Science Day should not remain a one-day celebration.”
It must inspire students to pursue their passion for STEM seriously to innovate, persevere, and shape a future where progress is inclusive and driven by knowledge, she said.
Project Lead – Education at Smart Village Movement, Divine Dkhar, said, “On this Pre National Science Day, we celebrate the power of curiosity and the incredible role women play in shaping the future of science. When students are given opportunities to explore and experiment, they don’t just learn science; they begin to think like scientists.”
Dkhar stated, “Today’s celebration reminds us that empowering young minds, especially girls, is key to building a truly developed nation.”
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Through such initiatives, NECTAR and Smart Village Movement aim to promote the importance of STEM education and engage students who previously lacked the opportunity or resources to engage in innovative learning are now able to access and benefit from STEM education.
