Dr Jitendra emphasises effective communication for translating innovations into societal benefits
STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, emphasized the critical role of effective science communication in translating scientific innovations into tangible societal benefits.
Speaking at the presentation of the Dr. Mangalam Swaminathan National Awards for Excellence 2024, Dr. Singh pointed out that specialized science journalism and science communicators are pivotal in fostering public awareness and ensuring that the advancements in science serve the greater good.
Dr. Singh, during his address, paid tribute to the late Dr. Mangalam Swaminathan, a trailblazer in science journalism in India. Dr. Mangalam, known for her pioneering work, was one of the first to bring science reporting to Indian media at a time when it was still emerging in the country.
She was an instrumental figure in popularizing scientific issues, such as space exploration and nuclear science, among the Indian public.
Even up until her untimely passing in 2017, Dr. Mangalam was working on a book about legendary scientist Homi J. Bhabha.
The award ceremony, held at the Sheri-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), celebrated Dr. Mangalam’s legacy by honoring individuals who have excelled in various domains of journalism, science, and culture.
The recipients of the Dr. Mangalam Swaminathan National Award for Excellence 2024 included P. Narayanan, awarded for Excellence in Journalism; Umendra Dutt, recognized for Excellence in Science Reporting; Sathyanarayana Raju, who received the award for Excellence in Art and Culture; and Jeejo John Puthezhath, recognized for Excellence in Medical Malpractices Investigation.
Dr. Singh also praised Dr. Mangalam’s contributions in setting the foundation for specialized science journalism in India. He noted that while countries like the United States and the UK had well-established traditions of science reporting, India was relatively new to this field. Dr. Mangalam was one of the first to change this narrative, paving the way for in-depth reporting on complex scientific issues.
Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of creating a culture of specialized science journalism in India. He expressed concern that in the Indian media landscape, journalists often lack the in-depth expertise required to cover complex topics such as science, technology, and policy effectively.
In contrast, in Western countries, specialized journalists focus on niche subjects such as science or war reporting, thus ensuring the depth and accuracy of information. Dr. Singh also called for more initiatives to train the next generation of science communicators, including workshops and short-term courses, to ensure Dr. Mangalam’s vision lives on.
Additionally, Dr. Singh underscored the transformative impact of India’s scientific advancements, such as progress in quantum technology, the bio-economy, and the “Purple Revolution” or Lavender Start-Up movement, which has empowered young entrepreneurs to achieve economic independence through lavender cultivation. These developments, he said, exemplify how science and technology can drive social and economic change.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that science communication is vital to ensure that scientific innovations benefit society. He encouraged all to contribute to the advancement of science literacy, honoring Dr. Mangalam Swaminathan’s legacy of bridging the gap between science and the public. The event was a reminder of how science communicators can shape public understanding and contribute to the broader progress of society.
