Syllabus
GS Paper 3 – Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology; Indigenization of Technology and Developing New Technology.
Context
The article emphasizes the significance of proficient science communication in India, illustrated by instances such as the Chandrayaan-3 mission and the distribution of COVID-19 information, and explores the emerging challenges and opportunities in the current scenario.
Science Communication: Introduction
Science communication is the practice of conveying scientific knowledge to the general public, with the goal of fostering a scientific mindset. This broad term encompasses the dissemination of scientific information, institutional outreach, and public engagement with science. It includes all forms of dialogue about science, its work, results, and discussions on its ethical, societal, or political implications. It also involves direct interactions with scientists and various audiences.
Diversity in Contemporary Science Communication
- Space Mission:
- Involves a well-defined, largely one-way transmission of scientific information.
- Offers benefits of inherent visual appeal, aspirational intent, and national sentiment.
- Chandrayaan-3, India’s third lunar mission, exemplifies the public communication of advanced science.
- The lander’s soft-landing was broadcast on several channels, marking one of India’s largest live scientific experiment demonstrations.
- Publicizing achievements like India’s Mars Orbiter Mission to enhance understanding of space exploration.
- COVID-19:
- Communication of scientific and healthcare-related information became crucial.
- Reflected the interdisciplinary effort in containing the pandemic.
- Aimed to encourage public adherence to good ‘pandemic habits’ like physical distancing, masking, and vaccination.
- A manual for homemade masks promoted the use of low-cost and reusable masks during the pandemic.
- Highlighted the challenging situation for science communication in India, with gaps in data reporting, vaccine hesitancy, and infection forecasting.
- Disseminating accurate information during the COVID-19 pandemic to combat misinformation and promote vaccination.
- Contrasting Communication:
- Different aspects and outcomes of science communication in a space mission and a pandemic revealed the diverse nature and needs of contemporary science engagement.
Role of Science Communication for Indian Society
- Fostering Environmental Consciousness: Conducting campaigns to elucidate the significance of conservation and sustainable living for a cleaner environment.
- Bridging the Gap with Researchers: Organizing public lectures, workshops, or online forums for scientists to interact with the community.
- Promoting Scientific Temper: Implementing educational programs, science festivals, and initiatives to foster scientific inquiry among students.
- Government Policies and Decision-Making: Advocating for policies based on scientific research in areas like healthcare, environment, and technology.
- Encouraging Innovation and Research: Publicizing breakthroughs in research to attract support and funding for further scientific exploration.
- Building Trust in Scientific Institutions: Regularly sharing updates, findings, and insights from scientific institutions to establish credibility.
- Empowering Decision-Making: Initiating programs to explain the science behind everyday choices, from healthcare to technology use.
- Crisis Management and Risk Communication: Providing timely and accurate communication during natural disasters or health emergencies to guide the public on safety measures.
Challenges in Science Communication in India
- Deficiency in Formal Education: There is a lack of formal education and training in science communication.
- Integration into Scientific Process: There is a need to incorporate science communication into the scientific process itself.
- Lack of Comprehensive Strategy: The absence of a large-scale, multi-disciplinary science communication strategy is a significant challenge.
- Closure of Vigyan Prasar: Despite various achievements, the closure of Vigyan Prasar in 2023 highlighted the existing challenges.
- Language Barrier: The diversity of languages in India can make it difficult to communicate scientific concepts effectively to all sections of society.
- Digital Divide: The disparity in access to digital resources can hinder the reach of science communication.
- Misinformation: The spread of misinformation, particularly on social media, can undermine efforts to communicate accurate scientific information.
Steps taken by India to promote Science Communication
- Publications and Information Directorate (PID)
- An organisation under the Council of Science and Industrial Research (CSIR), established in 1951, dedicated to publishing and disseminating scientific information in India.
- National Science Magazines
- The PID published magazines to popularize science among the masses, including Vigyan Pragati (in Hindi, launched in 1952), Science Reporter (in English, launched in 1964), and Science Ki Duniya (in Urdu, launched in 1975).
- Birla Industrial and Technological Museum
- The first science museum in India, established in Kolkata in 1959, to showcase India’s scientific heritage and promote science education among the masses.
- Article 51 A(h)
- A part of the 42nd amendment to the Constitution in 1976, which added a new section on the fundamental duties of the citizens of India. The article states that it is the duty of every citizen to develop a scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
- National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC)
- A scientific programme established in 1982 during the 6th five-year plan.
- Vigyan Prasar
- An autonomous organisation under the Department of Science and Technology, set up in 1989 to popularise science at large, which was closed in 2023.
- CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR)
- A new institute established in 2021 by merging two existing institutes of CSIR.
- National Science Funding Agencies
- The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are responsible for communicating the outcomes and impacts of the funded research projects to the public and the media.
- These agencies and organizations actively engage in science communication through press releases, social media campaigns, exhibitions, and lectures.
- Indian Sign Language AstroLab
- Equipped with 65 pieces of equipment, including a large telescope and audiovisual aids, the AstroLab provides virtual access to educational videos in Indian sign language, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
- CSIR-NPL (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Physical Laboratory)
- Conducts multidisciplinary R&D for quantum standards, and technology development, and provides training under the “Make in India” and “Skill India” programs.
- One Week – One Lab Campaign
- A program by CSIR-NPL to create awareness about technologies and services, provide solutions to societal problems and develop scientific temperament among students. Over 180 schools in Delhi-NCR have been exposed to NPL labs, and more schools will be included in future interactions.
- Science and Heritage Research Initiative (SHRI)
- This initiative can potentially increase demand for the traditional art of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.
- National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI)
- An end-to-end plan for start-ups aimed at doubling the number of incubators and start-ups in five years.
- National Start-up Awards
- Recognizes and rewards outstanding start-ups and ecosystem enablers contributing to economic dynamism by stimulating innovation and competition.
Way ahead
- Formal Education and Training
- There is a need to introduce master’s and doctoral programs in science communication to nurture skilled communicators who are attuned to India’s diverse contexts.
- Expanding science communication degree programmes will equip science communicators with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the diverse needs and contexts of science communication in India.
- Integration with Scientific Process
- Scientists should be encouraged to actively participate in science communication, integrating it into their research and being rewarded for their efforts.
- Integrating science communication into the scientific process will help develop strategies to communicate science effectively at various levels.
- Large-Scale Strategy
- There is a need to establish a professional organization that collaborates with government departments, stakeholders, and experts to create comprehensive science communication frameworks.
- These frameworks should span various disciplines, media formats, and demographic groups. India should encourage and assess the practice of science communication among scientists, including incentives, public engagement, outreach programmes, and translation of research papers.
- Interdisciplinary Approach
- India requires a comprehensive and coordinated plan to communicate scientific solutions to national challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance, air pollution, and energy diversification.
- Multifaceted Approach
- The science communication strategy should involve experts from various fields and sectors, and address the needs and perspectives of different disciplines and groups.
Source: The Hindu
Practice Question
Discuss the role and importance of Science Communication in India in the context of recent scientific advancements and societal challenges. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples. [250 words]