Aligarh: The Department of Physics at Aligarh Muslim University celebrated National Science Day with enthusiasm and scientific fervor on February 28.

This occasion commemorated the discovery of the Raman Effect by the eminent physicist Sir CV Raman, whose groundbreaking work earned him the Nobel Prize. Notably, Sir CV Raman was also conferred the D.Sc. (honoris causa) degree by AMU on November 20, 1931, adding to the university’s rich academic heritage.

The event honored scientific excellence and motivated students, researchers, and faculty to pursue knowledge and innovation.

Prof AK Chaubey, Former Chairman of the Department of Physics, presided over the program. He highlighted the significance of National Science Day and lauded the department’s pursuit of academic excellence. He encouraged faculty and students to cultivate perseverance and determination in overcoming challenges and shared his experiences from his tenure at AMU.

The Chief Guest, Prof Saibal Ray, FRAS and Associate Director, Centre of Cosmology, Astrophysics, and Space Science at GLA University of Mathura, emphasized Sir CV Raman’s commitment and vision. He delivered a special lecture titled ‘Raman’s Musicals: A Retrospective of EKTARA Research and Development. ’

The Guest of Honour, Prof Rajendra Singh Dhaka from IIT Delhi, discussed the impact of the Raman Effect on materials research and its benefits to society. He also detailed Raman’s journey from London to India, where he made his seminal discovery.

Prof Ateeq Ahmad, Dean, Faculty of Science, highlighted the importance of scientific exploration and encouraged students to dedicate themselves to research.

Prof Anisul A Usmani, Chairman, Department of Physics, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the department’s recent achievements and initiatives. He reaffirmed its commitment to inspiring future generations in advancing science and technology.

A significant highlight of the event was the conferral of the Lifetime Achievement Award upon Prof AK Chaubey in recognition of his contributions to physics. The citation was presented by Prof BP Singh, the senior-most faculty member of the department.

The celebration also featured a prize distribution ceremony recognizing winners of various competitions. In the Science Quiz Competition, Samveel Ansari secured first place, followed by Mohd Raza Khan in second place, while Lalit Bhardwaj and Suhaib Khan jointly secured third place. The Essay Writing Competition saw Ezaj Ahmad in first place, Asif Shahriyar in second, and Nadeem Parvez Khan in third. In the Slogan and Poster Making Competition, Mohd Sahil Khan emerged as the winner.

For the Poster Presentation category among Research Scholars, Daud Ahmad Ansari won first place, Aquib Siddiq secured second, and Nida Malik took third. In the Oral Research Paper Presentation, Syed Mohd Shariq Tahir won first place, Daud Ahmad Ansari secured second, and the third prize was shared by Mohd Ashahar Ahamad and Naureen.

The event witnessed the participation of a large number of faculty members, including retired and current professors, along with students and research scholars. Notable attendees included Prof Isar Ahmad Rizvi, Prof Shakeel Ahmad, Prof Shahid Hussain, Prof Shabbir Ahmad, Prof Mohd Shoeb, Prof Tauheed Ahmad, Prof M Afzal Ansari, Prof Zafar Ali Khan, Prof SSZ Ashraf, Prof Wasi Khan, and Prof Tufail Ahmad, among others.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Jai Prakash, Convener of National Science Day Celebrations, who also conducted the proceedings. The celebration reinforced a spirit of scientific curiosity and excellence among students, researchers, and faculty members.