ICAR-NRCB Marks National Science Day with Focus on Women's Role in Science
In Trichy, the ICAR–National Research Centre for Banana (ICAR-NRCB) celebrated National Science Day under the nationwide theme 'Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat'. This event highlighted the critical contributions of women to India's growth in science and technology, aligning with national development goals.
Open Day Event Draws Massive Participation
The institute organized an 'Open Day' to allow the public and stakeholders to explore its extensive research activities, ongoing projects, and developed products. More than 2,500 students from over 35 schools and colleges across Trichy, Karur, Thanjavur, and Pudukottai participated actively. Additionally, over 300 banana farmers, entrepreneurs, and general public members attended, making it a highly inclusive and engaging event.
ISRO Director Emphasizes Space Achievements and Women's Contributions
Chief guest M D Gowrisankar, director of the Office of International and Interagency Cooperation at ISRO, Bengaluru, delivered an inspiring address. He spoke about ISRO's key achievements in space research and the exciting career opportunities available for young aspirants. Gowrisankar particularly emphasized ISRO's ongoing work on the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) and highlighted the significant contributions of women engineers to this ambitious project. His speech underscored the vital role women play in advancing space science and technology, reinforcing the event's theme.
Advancements in Agriculture and Banana Research
R Selvarajan, director of ICAR-NRCB, discussed recent advancements in gene-editing technology and stressed how scientific progress in agriculture has transformed India from a food-deficient nation into one with surplus production. To align with the theme, women scientists from various ICAR-NRCB divisions presented special lectures on key breakthroughs in banana research. These lectures covered:
- Quality planting material production
- Biotechnology applications
- Breeding techniques
- Improved production methods
- The role of fungi in agriculture
Extensive Exhibitions and Demonstrations
The event featured more than 40 scientific demonstrations and over 100 exhibits specifically tailored for students. A notable display included diverse banana varieties, such as:
- ICAR-NRCB-developed cultivars
- Popular commercial types
- Local landraces
- Wild germplasm
Exhibition stalls showcased banana-based value-added products, tissue culture plants, ornamental plants, and various agricultural inputs. These exhibits were designed to benefit both students and farmers, providing practical insights into modern agricultural practices and innovations.
This comprehensive event not only celebrated scientific achievements but also fostered a deeper understanding of the integral role women play in driving India's scientific and technological advancements, particularly in agriculture and space research.
