New Delhi, August 11, 2026: The Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have launched the second edition of ICMR-SHINE 2026 (Science and Health Innovation for NextGen Explorers), giving school students an opportunity to experience health research first-hand.
The two-day programme is being conducted on August 11 and 12 across 83 ICMR locations in the country. From Keylong in Himachal Pradesh to Kerala, and from Diu to Nagaland, the initiative aims to connect young students with scientific research and encourage greater interest in science and innovation.
Students Get First-Hand Exposure to Health Research
Around 30,000 students are expected to participate in the programme. Students from Classes 9 to 12 are being introduced to different aspects of health research through laboratory visits, research exhibitions, poster presentations, video displays and live demonstrations.
The participating students are also getting an opportunity to interact directly with ICMR scientists. These interactions are designed to help them understand how researchers work, how scientific discoveries are developed and how research can address real-world health challenges.
The initiative has been inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call encouraging students to spend a day experiencing the life of a scientist. The programme seeks to take scientific learning beyond textbooks and provide students with practical exposure to research environments.
ICMR Director General Encourages Students to Stay Curious
Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research and Director General of ICMR, interacted with participating students and encouraged them to remain curious, ask questions and explore new possibilities.
He highlighted the importance of curiosity in scientific discovery and urged students to consider science and health research as potential career paths through which they can contribute to society.
Dr Bahl also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing ICMR’s research initiatives and innovations, allowing students to see how scientific work can translate into practical solutions for public health.
SHINE Website and National Research Competition Launched
As part of SHINE 2026, ICMR has also launched the programme’s dedicated website, providing students with information, resources and updates related to health research.
A nationwide school competition has also been announced. Students will be encouraged to frame research questions and suggest possible solutions to real-world public health challenges.
The initiative is supported by the official SHINE mascot, Dr Curio, which features in the programme’s educational and outreach activities.
Building India’s Next Generation of Researchers
By opening its laboratories and research facilities to young learners, ICMR aims to make scientific research more accessible and relatable. The programme is expected to help students understand the role of science in tackling challenges related to healthcare and community well-being.
The initiative also supports the broader objective of developing scientific temper among India’s youth and encouraging more students to pursue research-oriented careers.
ICMR-SHINE 2026 is aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, with a focus on nurturing young talent capable of contributing to India’s scientific, healthcare and technological progress.
