Science & TechnologySource: Press Information Bureau
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Joins 150-Year Celebrations of IACS, Birthplace of Raman Effect and India’s First Nobel Prize in Science
Thursday, 28 May 2026
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The Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in India's scientific journey. This event matters for UPSC aspirants as it relates to GS Paper 3, focusing on Science and Technology. Last Updated: 28-05-2026
Key Facts About IACS
- Founded in 1876 by Dr. Mahendralal Sircar, IACS is the first research institution in Asia established by Indians.
- The institution is renowned for the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman, leading to India's first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.
- IACS inaugurated the indigenously built Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) system for amorphous silicon solar cell fabrication.
- Launch of RETINA (Research Entrepreneurship for Translation, Innovation, and Navigation) to bridge research and entrepreneurship.
- Notable scientists associated with IACS include Jagadish Chandra Bose, Meghnad Saha, and S.N. Bose.
- The institution plays a pivotal role in nurturing India's scientific capacity and modern education since colonial times.
India's Scientific Heritage and Future
IACS symbolizes India's scientific awakening and its ongoing contributions to scientific excellence. It aligns with India's strategic goals of becoming a leading knowledge economy by 2047. The institution's advancements in fields like quantum materials and artificial intelligence are crucial for India's global competitiveness.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Science and Technology - Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
- Prelims: Questions could focus on the Raman Effect, PECVD technology, and key figures associated with IACS.
- Mains: Analytical themes could include India's scientific heritage and its role in modern innovation.
- Essay Paper: Topics on India's journey towards becoming a knowledge economy.
FAQ Section
- What is IACS? IACS is the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, established in 1876, and is Asia's first research institution founded by Indians.
- Why is IACS important? IACS is significant for its historical contributions to science, including the discovery of the Raman Effect, and its ongoing role in advancing scientific research and innovation in India.
- What are the key features of IACS? Key features include its foundational role in India's scientific research, the discovery of the Raman Effect, and recent advancements like the PECVD system and RETINA center.
Detailed Coverage
- 150-year celebration of IACS held in Kolkata.
- Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized IACS's scientific contributions.
- IACS is the birthplace of the Raman Effect.
- Inauguration of the PECVD system for solar cell fabrication.
- Launch of RETINA to link research with entrepreneurship.
- IACS founded in 1876 by Dr. Mahendralal Sircar.
- Notable scientists like Sir C.V. Raman associated with IACS.
- Raman Effect discovered at IACS earned Nobel Prize in 1930.
- Dr. Singh paid tributes to key figures in science.
- PECVD setup symbolizes India's goal of scientific self-reliance.
- RETINA aims to address national priorities in healthcare and sustainable energy.
- Focus on emerging fields like quantum materials and AI.
- Hope for India to become a leading knowledge economy by 2047.
- Event underscores commitment to innovation and research.
- IACS plays a critical role in nurturing scientific education.
- Celebration reflects India's rich scientific heritage.
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