Pune: The CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) celebrated its Platinum Jubilee, marking 75 years of pioneering scientific research and innovation. The event, held at the CSIR-NCL premises in Pune, brought together esteemed scientists, industry leaders, and academicians to reflect on the laboratory’s legacy, contributions, and future ambitions.
The celebrations were attended by Padma Bhushan Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon Group, as the Chief Guest, and Padma Vibhushan Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, Former Director General of CSIR, as the Guest of Honour.
Dr. Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR-NCL, presented a detailed report on the laboratory’s key achievements in 2024, outlining its science, innovation, and technology roadmap for 2021-30. He highlighted major breakthroughs in chemistry, materials science, and industrial applications, while also discussing future challenges and opportunities.
In her 75th Foundation Day Oration, Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw reflected on her first visit to CSIR-NCL in 1989, applauding its legacy of innovation and research excellence. She emphasized India’s need to develop new medicines and advanced technologies, leveraging its cost-effective innovation ecosystem to compete globally.
Highlighting the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing, Dr. Mazumdar-Shaw urged Indian scientists to embrace cutting-edge technologies. She emphasized that India is entering a golden era in healthcare and biosciences, but sustainable progress requires strong investments, policy support, and collaborative efforts.
Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar commended CSIR-NCL for its groundbreaking contributions to science and technology. He outlined five major scientific breakthroughs that originated at CSIR-NCL and praised its role in solving complex industrial challenges.
He recalled CSIR-NCL’s instrumental role in addressing industrial crises, including the Bhopal Gas Tragedy and the Maharashtra Gas Cracker Complex blast, reinforcing the laboratory’s expertise in crisis management and problem-solving. He also lauded CSIR-NCL’s leadership in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) advancements, which have positioned India as a global competitor in innovation.
Unveiling of "Interfaces" and Science Museum
A key moment of the celebration was the unveiling of "Interfaces", an immersive 3D-printed wall sculpture symbolizing the intersection of science, engineering, and art in research. Additionally, the CSIR-NCL Archives and Science Museum was inaugurated, offering a comprehensive digital and physical showcase of the laboratory’s journey, significant discoveries, and aspirations for the future.
Special Releases and Research Awards
The event also saw the launch of Platinum Jubilee publications, including:
CSIR-NCL 75 Stories – Coffee Table Book
3rd Edition of Flora and Fauna on CSIR-NCL Campus
Allotrope’s Platinum Jubilee Special Issue
As part of the celebrations, the NCL Research Foundation Awards were presented to scientists and innovators for their outstanding contributions in research and technology.
