AUG 08: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with the Department of Health Research (DHR), organized a nationwide outreach program titled SHINE – Science, Health & Innovation for Next-Gen Explorers on August 7–8, 2025. The initiative, aligned with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of encouraging students to “spend one day as a scientist,” welcomed 13,150 students from grades 9 to 12.
Participants from over 300 schools across 39 districts in 16 states and UTs visited ICMR institutes and DHR-Model Rural Health Research Units. The SHINE program was designed to spark scientific curiosity, introduce students to biomedical research, and promote interest in public health careers.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, DHR & Director General, ICMR, stated, “This is a unique initiative to inspire future health researchers and foster innovation.” Addressing students, he encouraged them to engage deeply with science and imagine a role for themselves in building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The interactive sessions included guided lab tours, research exhibitions, poster walks, video screenings, and live demonstrations of ongoing scientific work. Students interacted directly with ICMR scientists, gaining insights into their work and India’s advancements in medical research.
To enhance student engagement, ICMR introduced a mascot, Dr. Curio, as a friendly guide. Four short films were also screened, highlighting ICMR’s achievements in Covaxin development, iDRONE healthcare delivery, TB elimination, and pandemic preparedness through Vishanu Yudh Abhyas.
The program coincided with the 104th birth anniversary of Dr. V. Ramalingaswami, a pioneering medical researcher and former DG of ICMR, whose legacy continues to shape Indian science.
SHINE reaffirmed ICMR’s dedication to nurturing scientific spirit among India’s youth and building awareness about the role of health research in national development.
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