Former Vice President calls for democratizing scientific knowledge as India charts course toward Viksit Bharat 2047
“You should teach them in their mother tongue, and it will directly reach them. I say that mother tongue is like eyesight and English is like spectacles,” declared M. Venkaiah Naidu, former Vice President of India, delivering a powerful metaphor that captured the essence of a day-long national deliberation on science communication at the B.M. Birla Science Centre on Thursday (Jan 8th, 2026).
The National Conclave titled “Lab to Society: Role of Science Communication in Building Viksit Bharat @ 2047,” jointly organized by the Academy for Science, Technology and Communication (ASTC) and the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) – Telangana Chapter, in collaboration with the Eenadu Group, brought together India’s foremost scientific minds and communication experts at the Bhaskara Auditorium to address a fundamental challenge: how to bridge the widening gap between laboratory breakthroughs and public understanding as the nation races toward its centenary of independence.
The Language of Science
Delivering the inaugural address as Chief Guest, Venkaiah Naidu emphasized that scientific education must be imparted in one’s mother tongue to ensure students can understand it in a better way. His advocacy went beyond mere educational policy—it represented a vision for democratizing science itself.
“The day is not far away when science and medicine are taught in our mother tongue. Not just Telugu, but the respective mother tongues of the youngsters,” the former Vice President declared, drawing enthusiastic response from the audience that included former vice-chancellors, former DRDO chiefs, senior academics, industry leaders, and media veterans.
Naidu pointed to practical examples of effective vernacular science communication already underway. “Complex science topics are being published in Eenadu under the ‘Gyana Netram’ (Eye of Knowledge) column in a way that is understandable to the general public,” he noted. “The more we can increase interest in science, the further ahead the country will be in the field of science.”
His message aligned directly with the National Education Policy 2020, which advocates integrating society with laboratory research from the foundation level and emphasizes multilingual education as key to unlocking creative thinking and superior subject comprehension.
From Laboratory to Livelihood
Naidu’s address tackled the persistent challenge of ensuring research outcomes benefit society at large. “Scientific knowledge should reach the doorstep of people,” he stressed, calling for information to be conveyed to the public in an easily understandable manner while fostering trust in science and technology.
The former Vice President highlighted agriculture as a powerful case study. “We are all aware that enough information is not given to farmers, who are using pesticides, which is affecting human lives. Because of the efforts made by M.S. Swaminathan, now we are able to export food, and that is the greatness of the scientific community,” he said, drawing a direct line between scientific research and national food security.
His call for stronger academia-industry linkages was unequivocal. “Outcome of research in labs must benefit society at large. Academia and industrial linkages are important,” Naidu emphasized. “Without effective science communication, discoveries remain limited to academic journals.”
He urged the creation of centers of excellence in every state, arguing that science and technology should be used to enhance people’s capacity and caliber to serve society. “There should be a powerful thread to meaningfully connect science, technology and society. Science communication is an important tool in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat,” he declared.
The Patent Gap and Research Priorities
Turning to India’s competitive position, Naidu delivered a sobering assessment. India must increase priority for research and scientific advancement to maintain leadership in science and technology, he noted, pointing out that the nation currently lags behind developed nations in patent generation even as research publications increase.
“The greater the public interest in science, the more scientifically the nation progresses,” he observed. “Human welfare must be the ultimate goal of all scientific endeavor; intellectual capacity should be organized systematically to serve this purpose.”
Infrastructure and Corporate Responsibility
Addressing the practical challenges of a nation where 60 percent of the population resides in rural areas, Naidu called for private sector involvement through Corporate Social Responsibility funds to establish science laboratories in schools. Where individual school laboratories aren’t feasible, he suggested developing clustered science laboratories serving multiple schools in a defined area—a pragmatic solution to the rural educational infrastructure crisis.
In a cautionary note that resonated with contemporary concerns, Naidu stressed the need for “information with confirmation, especially in the age of Artificial Intelligence.” His warning was stark: “I am afraid that Artificial Intelligence is going to create havoc. We must see to it that proper structures are created to stop the misuse of technological advancements.”
Trust Over Data: Dr. Soumya’s Pandemic Lessons
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, a towering figure in global health governance, delivered the thematic address as Guest of Honour, bringing her experience as former Director-General of the Indian Council of Medical Research and former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization to bear on the science communication challenge.
Currently chairing the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Dr. Swaminathan drew powerful lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic that fundamentally challenged assumptions about how scientific information translates into public action.
“How do we take science from the labs to society? Many people think that science means wearing a white coat in a lab. Everything we take for granted today came from scientific discoveries,” she began. “We live in a world where public trust in science is fragile. This experience taught us we needed to fight ‘infodemic.'”
Her central insight cut to the heart of science communication’s failure during the pandemic. “Many of us assumed during the pandemic that providing people with facts, graphs, numbers and figures would automatically translate into rational decisions. But human beings do not live inside spreadsheets. They operate and make decisions based on trust,” Dr. Swaminathan explained.
“One of the lessons from the pandemic was that information is not the same as communication,” she emphasized. “It became clear during COVID-19 that some voices were more credible than others. Social listening was about keeping a close watch on social media and online communication. I also learnt that when people ask questions, that does not mean they are anti-science, they are asking genuine questions.”
Dr. Swaminathan shared how conspiracy theories about vaccines—including claims that they affected fertility—severely impacted people’s trust in scientific advancements, demonstrating the real-world consequences of ineffective science communication.
Her prescription was clear: “From broadcasting, we need to move to listening. It is very difficult to change mindsets. We need to involve teachers, youth groups to spread public health messages. I find that a story stays with you more than a piece of paper that you read.”
She cited the work of noted actor Dr. Mohan Agashe on mental health films as an example of effective communication. “Journalists need to add local context in the local language,” she stressed, echoing Naidu’s emphasis on vernacular communication.
Dr. Swaminathan also addressed the geopolitical dimensions of science communication, articulating a vision of science diplomacy built on universal truths. “Science diplomacy rests on simple truths. First truth: pathogens do not need passports. Climate change does not respect state or national boundaries. Human curiosity and compassion cross political lines,” she declared.
Her message was particularly pointed: “Science should not be suppressed for partisan purposes.” Diplomacy, she argued, can bridge the gaps in science communication that are otherwise impacted by geopolitical developments.
On public health specifically, Dr. Swaminathan identified diet and air pollution as two critical risk factors. “Good food does not mean expensive food. Here, it is a battle with companies,” she said, highlighting the commercial interests that often complicate public health messaging.
Honouring Excellence in Science & Communication
The conclave recognized individuals who have embodied the lab-to-society ideal through decades of dedicated work.
Dr. D. Balasubramanian, former Director of Research at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) and former Director of the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), was felicitated for transforming knowledge into public good. A Padma Shri awardee (2002) who has won the UNESCO Kalinga Prize for science popularization and the TWAS Award for Science Diplomacy, Dr. Balasubramanian has authored over 180 publications spanning eye disease biology and biomedical research while maintaining an active presence in public science communication.
Dr. B.G. Sidharth, Founder Director-General of the B.M. Birla Science Centre, received recognition for pioneering contributions to science education and public understanding of science—fitting acknowledgment at the very institution he helped establish.
Pallava Bagla, Senior Science Editor at NDTV, was honored for bringing complex scientific developments to millions of television viewers through decades of reportage that has advanced science communication in mainstream media. His expertise in making scientific narratives accessible to diverse audiences exemplifies the kind of professional science journalism the conclave aimed to promote.
Vigyan Shri Laureates: Genetics & Environment
Two recipients of Vigyan Shri—the Government of India’s highest science award—represented different facets of research with profound societal impact.
Dr. K. Thangaraj, former Director of the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), recognized in Biological Sciences, has dedicated over three decades to groundbreaking research in population genetics and medical genomics. His landmark discoveries include demonstrating that indigenous tribes of the Andaman Islands represent the earliest modern human migration out of Africa approximately 65,000 years ago, and revealing that endogamy has been a longstanding social practice in India for nearly 2,000 years, resulting in population-specific recessive genetic disorders. Currently heading the GenomeIndia initiative and the Paediatric Rare Genetic Diseases Mission, Dr. Thangaraj’s work directly addresses India’s unique genetic landscape and healthcare challenges.
Dr. S. Venkata Mohan, Director of CSIR-National Institute of Environmental Engineering Research (CSIR-NEERI), recognized in Environmental Sciences, has published over 450 research papers, holds 16 patents, and has supervised 42 Ph.D. scholars. A recipient of the prestigious Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize and INAE-SERB Abdul Kalam Technology Innovation National Fellowship, his pioneering work on biorefineries, low-carbon energy, and waste-to-wealth technologies has led to scalable innovations in wastewater treatment and CO₂ bio-sequestration—transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.
Strategic Sessions: Space to Society
The conclave’s comprehensive four-session structure spanned the breadth of India’s scientific achievements and communication challenges.
Session I: Space and Defense Innovations showcased India’s strategic capabilities. Dr. J. Kamalakar Rao from ISRO Satellite Centre presented India’s achievements in space exploration, with particular emphasis on the Chandrayaan 3 lunar mission and how space technologies translate into societal benefits.
Dr. S.V.S. Narayana Murty, Chairman and Managing Director of MIDHANI (Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited), discussed materials research for national strategic programs in the context of Viksit Bharat 2047. Drawing on his extensive background in aerospace materials development—including ultrahigh-strength steels, titanium alloys, superalloys, and aluminum alloys developed during his tenure at ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre—Dr. Murty demonstrated India’s growing capacity to indigenize critical materials for space exploration, defense, and civilian applications, including cryogenic and semi-cryogenic propulsion systems.
Session II: Science Communication and Disseminating Scientific Achievements confronted the challenge head-on. Pallava Bagla addressed making science and technology a shared national dream, leveraging his decades of experience in translating complex scientific developments for television audiences.
Dr. Usha Raman, Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Hyderabad, provided academic perspectives on mainstreaming science journalism. An accomplished academic with research interests spanning journalism pedagogy, cultural studies of science, and health communication, Dr. Raman brought theoretical rigor to practical science communication challenges. Having previously headed communications at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute and currently serving as a columnist for The Hindu and editor of Teacher Plus magazine—a monthly publication for school teachers—she uniquely combines academic expertise with practical communication experience.
Session III: Health, Nutrition and Non-Communicable Diseases addressed critical public health challenges. Dr. Subba Rao M. Gavaravarapu from ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition tackled the constant communication dilemma between facts and fiction in nutrition policies. As Head of the Nutrition Information, Communication and Health Education (NICHE) Division, Dr. Gavaravarapu uniquely blends social science expertise with two decades of nutrition communication, public policy, and community engagement experience. With over 80 research papers, 13 book chapters, 5 books, and 50-plus popular articles on nutrition communication and health policy advocacy, he brought both scholarly depth and practical wisdom to the discussion.
Dr. D. Raghunadha Rao discussed preparing for the rising tide of non-communicable diseases—a critical challenge for India’s healthcare system and development trajectory in the coming decades.
Session IV: Discovery to Dialogue convened a dynamic panel discussion titled “Reimagining Science Communication for a Sustainable Future,” bringing together scientists, journalists, communication professionals, and media representatives from institutions including CSIR and All India Radio to envision science communication strategies for India’s sustainable development future.
Institutional Leadership and Vision
Presidential remarks were delivered by Dr. Ch. Mohan Rao, Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Council of ASTC and Chairman of NASI-Telangana Chapter, who contextualized the conclave’s strategic importance. Dr. R.B.N. Prasad, Honorary President of ASTC, outlined the objectives of the conclave and emphasized the need for sustained engagement between scientists, communicators, and policymakers.
C.L. Narasimha Rao, Organizing Secretary, emphasized that the primary goal was to unite science teachers, researchers, communicators, and experts in bringing science from laboratories to society.
The gathering included distinguished participants such as Dr. Pavuluri Subba Rao, Chairman and Managing Director of Ananth Technologies Ltd., and M. Nageswara Rao, Editor of Eenadu, highlighting the cross-sectoral character of the deliberations.
A Publication for the Nation
A significant outcome of the conclave was the release of “ASTC-Communications” by former Vice President Naidu. Positioned as a comprehensive resource for science communicators across the country, this publication comprises abstracts of lectures, invited articles, and thematic material intended to support more informed, accurate, and engaging coverage of scientific issues. The publication aims to standardize and elevate science communication practices nationally.
The ASTC Legacy
The Academy for Science, Technology and Communication, established on October 18, 2004, was founded on the mission of promoting science popularization and scientific temper. Dr. J. Koneti Rao, a notable popular science writer, was instrumental in ASTC’s establishment, delivering the inaugural lecture “Science Communication and Scientific Temper” on October 1, 2004. Over two decades, ASTC has evolved into a leading organization fostering academia-industry linkages and promoting active engagement within the scientific community.
The Road Ahead
As the conclave concluded, participants left with a shared understanding that building Viksit Bharat by 2047 requires more than scientific excellence—it demands a fundamental democratization of scientific knowledge.
The persistent challenge remains stark: the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and public understanding continues to result in slow adoption of beneficial technologies, proliferation of pseudoscience, and missed opportunities for evidence-based policymaking.
With 60 percent of India’s population in rural areas, science communication must transcend urban centers and elite institutions. The National Education Policy 2020 framework provides the architectural blueprint for integrating science-society connectivity from foundational levels through higher education.
The outcomes of this conclave—from the publication of ASTC-Communications to the strategic vision articulated by national leaders—are expected to influence policy directions, educational curricula, and media practices in the years ahead.
As Naidu’s memorable metaphor suggested, the path forward requires making science as natural and accessible as eyesight itself—not something that requires special spectacles to see clearly, but an integral part of how every Indian understands and engages with the world.
–Rashmi Kumari
