CSIR-NIScPR Celebrates Fifth Foundation Day, Strengthens Science Communication and Policy Research

The CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) celebrated its Fifth Foundation Day (14th January, 2026), reflecting on its expanding role in science communication, evidence-based policy research and validation of traditional knowledge. The event highlighted how the institute is leveraging artificial intelligence, multilingual outreach and global engagement to support India’s evolving science–policy landscape.

Why in News?

CSIR-NIScPR marked its 5th Foundation Day, showcasing initiatives in science communication, AI integration, traditional knowledge validation, and policy research, along with the launch of the SVASTIK web portal.

About CSIR-NIScPR

• The CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research is a premier institute under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research.
• It focuses on science communication, science policy research, and the validation of traditional knowledge, acting as a bridge between scientific research, policymakers and society.

Vision for Science Communication and AI Integration

• In her address, Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director of CSIR-NIScPR, highlighted the institute’s legacy in science communication and its future-oriented vision.
• She stressed the importance of collaboration with global institutions and the use of artificial intelligence to enhance science communication, particularly in regional Indian languages, to ensure inclusivity and wider societal impact.

Traditional Knowledge and Policy Research Strength

• A key highlight was the emphasis on the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL). Viswajanani J. Sattigeri, Head of the CSIR-TKDL Unit, underlined TKDL’s international recognition as a unique system for validating India’s traditional knowledge.
• With TKDL now fully digitised, CSIR-NIScPR is uniquely positioned to deploy advanced research tools and strengthen evidence-based policy research, an area of growing national and global relevance.

ANRF Perspective and Global Aspirations

• The Chief Guest, Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, praised NIScPR’s alignment with ANRF’s vision of positioning India as a global research and innovation hub.
• He encouraged the institute to “think global” and emphasised collaboration among scientists, engineers and AI specialists.
• He also invited NIScPR to leverage ANRF’s Saral AI tool to simplify research outputs and amplify public impact.

Launch of SVASTIK and Knowledge Outreach

• On the occasion, the SVASTIK web portal was formally launched. Implemented by CSIR-NIScPR, SVASTIK is a national initiative aimed at disseminating scientifically validated traditional knowledge.
• The portal provides content in English, 19 Indian languages, and five foreign languages, significantly enhancing accessibility, inclusivity and international outreach.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. CSIR-NIScPR is primarily associated with which of the following?

A. Defence manufacturing
B. Science communication and policy research
C. Space exploration
D. Medical drug trials