The CSIR–National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram, celebrated the 84th CSIR Foundation Day on 30th September 2025 with a series of programs that reflected on the organisation’s scientific legacy, its impact on society, and its future role in national development. The event brought together distinguished scientists, faculty, staff, and students in a spirit of pride and commitment to science for societal good.

The celebrations began with a welcome address by Dr. T. P. D. Rajan, Head, HRAD, CSIR-NIIST, followed by the Presidential Address by Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan, Director, CSIR-NIIST. In his address, Dr. Anandharamakrishnan highlighted the institute’s contributions across multiple domains of science and technology and underlined the importance of translational research. He remarked, “CSIR-NIIST has always been at the forefront of leveraging science and technology for societal progress. On this Foundation Day, we reaffirm our commitment to driving translational research, nurturing young talent, and strengthening industry partnerships to meet the nation’s aspirations.”
The Guest of Honour, Dr. Vijayamohanan K. Pillai, Former Dean (R&D), IISER Tirupati, and Former Director, CSIR-CECRI, Karaikudi, addressed the gathering and spoke about the evolving role of CSIR laboratories in advancing frontiers of research and training the next generation of scientists.

Delivering the Foundation Day Lecture on the theme “Societal Development through Science and Technology: Role of CSIR”, Chief Guest Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, Former Secretary, DSIR and Former Director General, CSIR, reflected on CSIR’s pioneering contributions to the nation. He cited landmark examples such as the development of infant food in India and CSIR’s critical role in COVID-19 mitigation. Dr. Mande observed, “Over the period of 83 years, CSIR has left an indelible mark on every walk of life. CSIR must now play an integral role towards Viksit Bharat 2047.”

As part of the celebrations, several MoUs were exchanged to strengthen collaborative research and innovation. The institute also recognized its dedicated staff and bright young achievers through a felicitation ceremony. Staff members who completed 25 years of 

Council service and those who retired during 2024–2025 were honoured, while merit awards were presented to outstanding students from the CSIR-NIIST family. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri. Srinivasa Rao Yella, Controller of Administration, CSIR-NIIST, followed by the National Anthem.

The Foundation Day celebration at CSIR-NIIST not only paid tribute to CSIR’s remarkable journey of scientific contributions spanning over eight decades but also reinforced the institute’s commitment to harnessing science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development and the nation’s progress.

 

 

 

 

     

*****

NK

(Release ID: 2173249) Visitor Counter : 77