Vice President Celebrates Young Scientists at NISER’s 15th Graduation Ceremony

BHUBANESWAR,09 JULY 2026: Stressing that scientific capability will be central to India’s transformation into a developed nation, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday called upon young researchers to lead the country’s innovation-driven growth while addressing the 15th Graduation Ceremony of the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER).

Describing NISER as a symbol of India’s growing scientific ambitions, the Vice President said institutions devoted to fundamental research are indispensable for building a strong knowledge economy, advancing technology, strengthening national security and promoting sustainable development. He noted that NISER has established itself as one of India’s premier scientific institutions, producing researchers who are making valuable contributions across diverse fields of science.

Highlighting the changing global landscape, Radhakrishnan said the world is witnessing rapid technological progress alongside complex challenges such as climate change, emerging health threats, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and advanced materials. These developments, he observed, demand scientific solutions that are innovative, collaborative and socially responsible.

He emphasised that science must extend beyond laboratories and academic publications to influence public policy, sustainable development and national progress. For a country with India’s youthful population and developmental aspirations, he said, investment in scientific research is not merely desirable but essential for realising the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Calling for greater collaboration across disciplines, the Vice President said the most pressing global problems require expertise from multiple fields working together. He encouraged graduating students to remain intellectually curious, uphold the highest ethical standards and embrace challenges with confidence. Scientific progress, he remarked, depends not only on discovering solutions but also on asking meaningful questions that inspire new ideas.

The Vice President also highlighted India’s growing international recognition in sectors such as space exploration, vaccine development, renewable energy and digital public infrastructure. These achievements, he said, demonstrate the country’s expanding scientific capabilities and provide a strong foundation for future innovation. He urged graduates to ensure that their knowledge and research contribute to society while balancing ambition with responsibility.

Paying tribute to the visionary scientist Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha, Radhakrishnan said his pioneering work laid the foundation for India’s atomic energy programme and inspired generations of scientists. Recalling the impact of Dr. Bhabha’s untimely demise, he said the nation overcame that setback with determination and has since emerged as one of the world’s leading countries in atomic research. He expressed confidence that many NISER graduates would carry forward this legacy and make significant contributions to India’s scientific and technological advancement.

The ceremony was attended by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh, Department of Atomic Energy Secretary and NISER Chairman Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, NISER Director Prof. H. N. Ghosh, along with faculty members, graduating students, parents and distinguished guests.