National Science Day 2026 Celebrated at Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak
The Sikkim State Council of Science and Technology (SSCS&T), Department of Science and Technology, Government of Sikkim, successfully celebrated National Science Day 2026 on 28th February 2026 at the Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak under the theme “Women in Science: Catalyzing Viksit Bharat.”
The programme commenced with registration followed by the inaugural session and welcome address by the Dr. Suman Thapa, Director, SSCS&T. During his welcome address, he emphasized the pivotal role of women in Science and Technology in shaping an inclusive and progressive society. He highlighted that women scientists, researchers and innovators are not only contributing to scientific advancement but are also driving sustainable development and green innovation aligned with national priorities. He further encouraged young students to actively participate in building a scientifically empowered Viksit Bharat.
The Technical Session featured distinguished Resource Persons presentation:
• Mrs. Minakshi Roy, Assistant Professor, SMIT, who spoke on “Women in Science: Catalyzing Viksit Bharat.” She emphasized the transformative role of women scientists in strengthening India’s research ecosystem and innovation landscape. She highlighted how inclusive participation of women in STEM is essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat and fostering equitable scientific growth.
• Ms. Swarnim Pradhan, Staff Engineer, Micron Technology, who shared insights on the contributions of women in advancing scientific innovation. She presented practical insights from the technology industry, underscoring how women professionals are contributing to cutting-edge advancements in engineering and semiconductor technology. She encouraged young girls to build confidence in technical fields and pursue emerging opportunities in global science and innovation sectors.
• Mrs. Usha Lachungpa, Retd Chief Principal Research Officer, Forest Department and Environmentalist who delivered an inspiring talk on “Catalyzing Green Innovation: The Role of Women in Science in achieving Mission LiFE goals.” spoke passionately about the role of women in environmental conservation and sustainable development. She stressed that women-led scientific initiatives and green innovations are crucial in achieving Mission LiFE goals and ensuring ecological balance for future generations.
Following the technical session, various competitions were organised including Essay Writing, Quiz, Model/Exhibition Display, Ex-tempore Speech and hands-on training activities for participating students. The hands-on training sessions were conducted alongside the competitions to promote experiential learning and scientific temperament among students.
A total of 275 participants, including students, escort teachers, officials and departmental staff, took part in the programme. Students from 24 schools (four schools from each of the six districts of Sikkim) actively participated in the events.
The winners of various competitions are as follows:
Essay Competition
1st Srijana Rai – Namphing Govt. Sr. Sec. School
2nd Yakila Lepcha – Khandu Govt. Sec. School
3rd Kasturi Saha – Melli Govt. Sr. Sec. School
Quiz Competition
1st Angeela Rai & Alphonsa Pradhan – Maniram Govt. Sec. School
2nd Prasansa Khatiwada & Sepmang Hang Limboo – Nandok Govt. Sec. School
3rd Mamata Biswakarma & Rinzing Sherpa – Chief Minister’s Model School
Model/Exhibition Display Competition
1st Shreya Chettri & Mimgeena Manger – Chakung Govt. Sr. Sec. School
2nd Lekuomae Dukpa & Roshi Kumari – Burtuk Govt. Sec. School
3rd Shagun Rai & Rewas Diyali – Chief Minister’s Model School
Ex-tempore Speech Competition
1. Sobha Gurung – Bardang Secondary School
2. Niskar Rai – Chakung Govt. Secondary School
3. Srijana Rai – Singhik Govt. Secondary School
The programme concluded with certificate and prize distribution, felicitation of the Resource Persons and vote of thanks. The celebration successfully fostered scientific awareness, encouraged participation of young minds, and reinforced the importance of women’s leadership in science and nation-building towards Viksit Bharat.
Report by
Tseten Pradhan
Assistant Scientific Officer
Sikkim State Council of Science and Technology
