CSIR-NIScPR Marks Fifth Foundation Day

The CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) celebrated its 5th Foundation Day, highlighting its growing role in science communication, policy research and validation of traditional knowledge. The event reflected the institute’s focus on leveraging artificial intelligence, regional language outreach and global engagement to strengthen India’s science-policy ecosystem.

Vision for Science Communication and AI Integration

In her welcome address, Director “Geetha Vani Rayasam” underlined NIScPR’s legacy in science communication and its future orientation. She emphasised the need to collaborate with global institutions and explore the use of artificial intelligence for effective communication in regional languages, noting that inclusive outreach is essential for societal impact.

Traditional Knowledge and Policy Research Strength

Dr “Viswajanani J. Sattigeri”, Head of the CSIR–Traditional Knowledge Digital Library Unit, highlighted TKDL’s international recognition as a unique system for validating traditional knowledge. She stressed that NIScPR is the only laboratory dedicated to such validation. With TKDL now fully digitised, she noted that the institute can deploy advanced research tools and strengthen evidence-based policy research, an area with significant national and global relevance.

ANRF Perspective and Global Aspirations

The Chief Guest, “Shivkumar Kalyanaraman”, CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, praised NIScPR’s alignment with ANRF’s vision of positioning India as a global research and innovation hub. He encouraged the institute to “think global” and highlighted its potential to use policy research to solve societal challenges. He also proposed collaboration between scientists, engineers and AI specialists, and invited NIScPR to utilise ANRF’s Saral AI tool to simplify research outputs and amplify impact through digital platforms.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• CSIR-NIScPR focuses on science communication, policy research and traditional knowledge.
• TKDL is a globally recognised digital repository of India’s traditional knowledge.
• ANRF aims to catalyse India’s rise as a research and innovation powerhouse.
• AI is being explored for regional language science communication.

Launch of SVASTIK and Academic Engagement

On the occasion, Dr Kalyanaraman launched the SVASTIK web portal, a national initiative implemented by CSIR-NIScPR to disseminate scientifically validated traditional knowledge. SVASTIK content is available in English, 19 Indian languages and five foreign languages, enhancing accessibility and outreach. The programme also featured poster presentations by NIScPR PhD scholars and S&T project staff, with the vote of thanks proposed by “Kanika Malik”, reaffirming the institute’s commitment to innovation, policy relevance and global leadership.