India March for Science

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India March for Science

9th August, 2017

Aug 9, 2017 became an important milestone in the history of science movements in India. For the first time in 70 years since independence, thousands of scientists, research scholars, post-graduate students, graduate students, and science loving people have marched under the banner of India March for Science in over 40 cities. The voice in defence of science and scientific temper echoed from various parts of the country. Scientists across the globe had organized a

New Delhi March

March for Science on April 22, 2017 in 600 cities, demanding greater support for science and demanding that governmental policies be guided by evidence-based science. Since our country has the same problems, and in addition, there is a rising wave of unscientific beliefs and superstitions, eminent scientists gave a call to organize a March for Science on 9th August, 2017 in state capitals and other cities. The call received tremendous support from within the country and abroad.

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Friends,

We are delighted to note that, on 22nd April this year, more than a million people undertook a March for Science in 600 cities across the globe, demanding robust funding for science and demanding that governmental policies be guided by scientific evidence.We are planning to complement and supplement this global effort in India as we feel it is very relevant in the current juncture.

On the one hand, scientists from India have played a commendable role in the discovery of gravitational waves and of Higgs Boson, in the interplanetary mission through Mangalyaan and in reducing foreign dependence through the development of indigenous satellite launching capability.

But, on the other, science in India is facing the danger of being eclipsed by a rising wave of unscientific beliefs and religious bigotry, and scientific research is suffering serious setback due to dwindling governmental support.

We note with deep concern that financial support to even premier institutions like IITs, NITs, and IISERs has been slashed. Universities are facing shortage of funds to adequately support scientific research. Research funding agencies like DST, DBT and CSIR are reportedly impacted by reduced governmental support.

Scientists in the government laboratories are being asked to generate a part of their salary by selling their inventions and from other sources.

While we can justly be inspired by the great achievements in science and technology in ancient India, we see that non-scientific ideas lacking in evidence are being propagated as science by persons in high positions, fueling a confrontational chauvinism in lieu of true patriotism that we cherish. Promoting scientific bent of mind can certainly help improve the social health of our country where incidents of witch hunting, honour killing and mob lynching are reported regularly.

We feel that the situation demands the members of scientific community to stand in defence of science and scientific attitude in an open and visible manner as done by scientists and science enthusiasts worldwide. We appeal to scientists, researchers, teachers, students, as well as all concerned citizens to organize 'India March for Science' events throughout the country, particularly in the state capitals, on 9th August 2017, with the following demands:

Appeal by Scientists

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• Allocate at least 3% of GDP to scientific and technologicalresearch and 10% towards education

• Stop propagation of unscientific, obscurantist ideas and religiousintolerance, and develop scientific temper, human values andspirit of inquiry in conformance with Article 51A of theConstitution.

• Ensure that the education system imparts only ideas that aresupported by scientific evidence.

• Enact policies based on evidence-based science.

New Delhi March

A statement of support from the International March for Science

Today, by joining the more than one million people around the world who marched for science on April 22, 2017, you send a strong and indisputable message: Science marches on. The March for Science movement is not about one day, or one country, or one politician. It is about things that matter to people around the globe: expanding your understanding of the world through scientific discovery, protecting the environment and our health, and creating a better future for our communities and our shared planet. The March for Science brought together more than 600 communities around the world, demonstrating the incredible power of international collaboration. Some of the most exciting scientific advancements in human history were made possible because of partnerships between scientists that stretch around the world. Science knows no borders—research and innovation occur everywhere—and history teaches us that we are stronger together. We stand with you in your call for greater funding of scientific research and education, and in your efforts to ensure that policy-making in our communities and governments is informed by scientific evidence. Thank you for coming together today to send a message shared by March for Science supporters around the world: science will not be ignored, and cannot be silenced. As science marches on, so do we.

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In New Delhi, the March began at 4.30 PM from Mandi House and ended at Jantar Mantar. More than 400 scientists, professors, teachers, research scholars, students and science-loving people joined the March with colourful banners and placards. The participants were from Delhi University, JNU, IIT-Delhi, CSIR-labs, AIIMS, MDU-Rohtak and other leading science and research institutes in the city. At Jantar Mantar Prof. Soumitro Banerjee (IISER-Kolkata, Bhatnagar Awardee and General Secretary of Breakthrough Science Society) congratulated the organisers and the participants.

He spoke on the demands raised by the march and the necessity to take this movement forward. Prof. Prabir Purakayastha (JNU), Prof. Dinesh, Dr. Vinay Kumar (Zakir Husain Delhi College, D.U. and In-Charge of Delhi BSS) and Mr. Chanchal Ghosh (Executive Committee Member of BSS) spoke on the occasion. The participants paid tribute to the eminent scientists Prof. U R Rao, Prof. P M Bhargava and Prof.Yashpal who had passed away recently. The India March for Science was hailed by the organisers of the International March For Science. A message from the International March for Science was read out.

New Delhi – Prof. Soumitro Banerjee (IISER, Kolkata) addressing

India March for Science – New Delhi

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India March for Science - Kolkata

Kolkata March

The Marchers assembled in front of Rajabazar Science College at 3PM. The eminent scientists Prof. Amitabha Datta, Chairman, Advisory Board of IMFS Kolkata Organizing Committee, Prof. Amitabha Raychoudhury, Professor, Calcutta University, Prof. Dhruba Mokhopadhyay, President of Breakthrough Science Society, and Dr. Nilesh Maity, Secretary of the IMFS Kolkata Organizing Committee briefly addressed the gathering and explained the purpose of the March. Prof. Amitabha Raychoudhury flagged off the March. It proceeded through Sealdah station and Moulali Crossing to reach Esplanade.

A delegation comprising Professor Dhruba Mukhopadhyay, Professor Anindita Bhadra, Professor Sugata Roy, Professor Ayan Banerjee and Professor Nilesh Maiti went to the Raj Bhavan to submit a memorandum to the Governor. In the meantime Dr. Debabrata Bera, Professor Pradipta Bandopadhyay, Professor Anindiata Bhadra, Shri Subrata Gouri (Vice-President, BSS West Bengal), Shri Arghya Das (Research Scholar) addressed the Marchers at Esplanade. The March ended when the delegation returned from Raj Bhavan.

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India March for Science – Kolkata

Culmination of the March in Kolkata

Two other marches were held in the state, one in North Bengal University, Siliguri, and the other in Asansol Girls College.

Prof. Amitabha Datta addressing the Kolkata March

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Bangaluru: At 11am more than 1500 people including scientists, research scholars, doctors, engineers, post-doctorate students, post-graduate students, graduate students and general public joined the March at the Town Hall. The memorial of Prof. U.R .Rao, Prof. Pushpa Bhargava, Prof Yash Pal gave the ambiance a sense of generations of scientists in defence of scientific temperament. Prof. Japhet (VC of Bangalore Central University), Dr. H S M Prakash, Deputy Director (retd), Geological survey of India and Mr. Nagesh Hegde (Popular Kannada science writer) paid homage to Prof U.R.Rao, Prof Yash

India March for Science – Bengaluru

Prof. Japhet. S (VC, Bangalore Central University) addressing at Town Hall

Pal, and Prof Pushpa Bhargava. Prof. Japhet flagged off the march. Dr G.S.D. Babu (Director, M.P.Birla Institute of Fundamental Research) handed over the message “Celebrate, nurture and protect science. Promote Scientific temper” from senior scientists to junior research scholars. More than 50 scientists and hundreds of research scholars from various research institutes like IISc, RRI, JNCASR, ICTS, TIFR, NCBS, NIAS, ISI, BU,BCU etc ., participated in the march. Ms. Rajani. K.S (State Secretary, Breakthrough Science Society) conducted the event at town hall.

L-R First row: Mr. Nagesh Hegde (Popular science writer), Prof. T.V.Ramachandra (IISc), Prof. Dipankar Chatterjee (IISc), Prof.Ravi Varma Kumar (Former Attorney General, GOK), Prof. Balachandra Rao (renowned mathematician), Dr. Richard Rego (Director, Research Centre, St. Joseph’s College), Prof. Sharbari Bhattacharya (Bangalore University), Dr. K. Sudha (Senior Plastic Surgeon). Also on the dais were Prof. D.P. SenGupta (NIAS), Dr. H S M Prakash (Dy Director, GSI), Mr. Mauryan (Principal Scientific Officer), representatives from AKVS, KJVS, BGVS, AIPSN, Concern (IISc). Prof. Dipankar Chatterji presided.

India March for Science – Bengaluru

A glimpse of the gathering at Town Hall

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India March for Science – Chennai

On August 9, the march began at 5 pm from the North end of Elliots Beach, Besant Nagar. Shri Arvind Gupta, the well known science popularizer flagged off the march. Professors, teachers and students from institutes like IIT, IMSc and city colleges and a good number of general public joined the march. The marchers carrying placards displaying various slogans marched to the south end covering a distance of about one km and then returned back to the starting point. The marchers were then addressed by the senior scientists who were present. Prof V Sunder (Former professor, Institute of Mathematical Sciences, IMSc), Shri Arvind Gupta,

Prof T R Govindarajan (Chennai Mathematical Institute, CMI), Prof Hema Murthy (IITM), Prof Ramanujam (IMSc), Dr Suresh Govindarajan (IITM), Dr Arul Aram (Anna University), Dr Pramesh (Postdoc student IMsc) and Mr Arjun (Research Scholar IITM) spoke on the various demands of the March. Mr George Joseph (BSS) read out the message received from the organisers of the International March for Science held on April 22. Dr Uma Ramchadran, Convenor of the Organising Committee thanked the marchers for making the event a big success. More than 400 people participated in the march.

Chennai March

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Prof Hema Murthy (IIT-M) addressing in Chennai

Chennai March

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Sri Arvind Gupta flagging off the March

Prof R Ramanujam (IMSc) addressing the Chennai March

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India March for Science - Mumbai On August 9, around 300 scientists, professors and researchers joined the India March for Science in Mumbai. It started at 4pm from Kranti Maidan and ended at Bharatiya Bima Nigam office near Chowpatty. Students from IIT Mumbai, TIFR and other important institutions were present to express their solidarity for the demands upheld by IMFS. "The problem arises when the government or its agencies do not come out and condemn statements made by public officials which are far removed from fact", said Deepak Modi from the National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai.“ Most of these statements are based on blind beliefs.

Mumbai March

These beliefs contribute to policy making much faster than we would imagine. Ten people start believing a myth and it becomes policy in no time", he added. "The rally is not just to demand more funds for science. It is time scientists come together to speak about the shift we are seeing in allotting government funds for fanciful things like cow urine rather than for research in basic sciences. If we do not speak now, people will believe in validation of cow urine without evidence", said Professor Aniket Sule, Astrophysicist attached with Homi Bhabha Center for Science Education. Many people involved in the march have strongly expressed their views that this event has set up a history and should be continued in future.

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India March for Science - Mumbai

Mumbai March

Mumbai March

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India March for Science – Thiruvananthapuram The city of Thiruvananthapuram witnessed a rousing display of solidarity and purpose as hundreds of teachers, researchers, students and concerned public gathered and marched under the banner - India March for Science on 9th August 2017. A good number of scientists, teachers, research scholars and students from institutions like NIIST (CSIR), IISER, IIST, JNTBGRI, CET and Kerala University participated in the march. The march was a culmination of the extensive campaign work undertaken by the organizing committee covering research institutions, colleges and schools in Thiruvananthapuram as well as other districts of Kerala. Solidarity marches were also organized in many districts of Kerala before August 9. There were many programmes like ‘science magic’, seminars and discussions in many localities for creating awareness among common people.

Dr Rajan Gurukkal, ex-VC, MG University delivering the inaugural address

On August 9 at 9.30am, before the start of the march, a talk titled ‘Turning good students to good scientists—From text book to life’ was delivered by Dr. Umesh Kadhane, Associate Professor, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram at the Public Library Hall, Palayam. An inaugural function was held at the same venue to flag off the march. Sri P Radhakrishnan, former Deputy Director, LPSC, ISRO and Chairman,

Organizing Committee, presided. Prof. P.N. Thankachan, General Convener, Organizing Committee welcomed the gathering. In his presidential address Sri. P. Radhakrishnan explained the aims and objectives of the march and that it was influenced by similar marches that had taken place in 600 cities across the world on April 22, 2017. A message from the organizers of the International March for Science was read out at the function. Prof Indulal of College of Engineering,

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Trivandrum, read out the memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister of India.Dr Rajan Gurukkal, former Vice Chancellor, Mahatma Gandhi University delivered the inaugural address. In his speech, Dr Gurukkal explained the crisis faced by science in the present social order. The march started from the entrance of the Public Library. Led by Dr Rajan Gurukkal, Sri P Radhakrishnan and several other prominent personalities, hundreds of marchers carrying placards displaying various demands marched on silently with determination and purpose. The march ended at Asan Square, in front of the administrative building of the Kerala University.

Sri. D. Krishna Warier, former Deputy Director, C-DAC, Prof. C.P. Aravindakshan, retired Principal, Government Women’s College and a leader of popular science movement in Kerala, Prof. Gireesh, former Head, Department of Physics, University College and Sri. G.S. Padmakumar, President, Breakthrough Science Society, Kerala Chapter addressed the gathering at the concluding function.

Dr. Rajan Gurukkal, Sri. P.Radhakrishnan, Prof.C.P.Aravindakshan, Sri. D. Krishna Warier and Sri. G.S. Padmakumar leading the India March for Science, Thiruvananthapuram.

India March for Science – Thiruvananthapuram

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A view of India March for Science, Thiruvananthapuram

Culmination of India March for Science, in front of Kerala University


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Science magic show as a part of the campaign for India March for Science

India March for Science campaign at schools

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India March for Science – Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The March started from the Press Club, Basheerbagh and proceeded to the Liberty Circle in Hyderabad. Prof Mohan Rao, Former Director, CCMB inaugurated the march. In his inaugural address, he appealed to the people to acquire the scientific way of thinking. He said that government should encourage research in basic sciences. He also emphasized that the science courses in school curriculum must be strengthened and the spread of unscientific ideas be stopped. He demanded that policies of government should be based on scientific evidence.

He also stressed that science must be used for improving the lives and living conditions of the common people.Breakthrough Science Society State Convener, Mr. R. Gangadhar addressed the gathering and spoke in support of the demands of the March. The March ended at the Liberty Circle where Prof Mohan Rao, Dr. C. Krishna Kumari (Science communicator), Dr G Rajitha and Mr. S. Janibasha (Githam University) addressed the marchers.

Prof Mohan Rao, ex-Director, CCMB, flagging off the March at Hyderabad

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India March for Science – Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The march started at 4 PM from the main gate of Sainik School at Bhubaneswar and covered one and half kilometres to reach at Pathani Samanta Planetarium. Scientists, faculty members, researchers, students and science enthusiasts numbering more than one thousand from various institutions of Odisha such as Institute of Physics, Bhubaneswar, NISER, IIT Bhubaneswar, Utkal University, Ravenshaw University, Bhubananda Orissa School of Engineering and many others joined the march. A public meeting was held in front of the Pathani Samanta Planetarium. Eminent scientists such as Prof. Swadhin Pattanaik, former Director, Institute of Mathematics, Bhubaneswar, Prof. Ajit Srivastav, Prof. L. P. Singh, Prof. Karmadev Moharana, Prof. Birendra Nayak, Prof. Anadi Das and Deputy Director of Planetarium Dr. Subhendu Pattanaik addressed the gathering. The program was co-ordinated by Dr. Sidhartha Varadwaj.

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India March for Science – AllahabadAllahabad: On 9 August, in solidarity with other cities of our country, the scientific community of Allahabad organized “India March for Science”. Nearly 300 scientists, professors, scholars, and students from Harishchandra Research Institute (HRI), Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), Allahabad University and its affiliated colleges, and other science loving people participated in this march. The march started from Vijayanagaram Hall, Science faculty, Allahabad University at 12.00 noon and ended at the Azad Park.

Before the march, Prof. Anupam Dikshit (Coordinator, Centre of Rural Technology and Development, Director-Faculty Recruitment Cell, Ex-Coordinator-Environmental Science, Biological Product Lab, Ex-HOD Botany Department, Allahabad University), Prof. Hari Prakash (Retired Professor, Former Dean of Science, Ex-Head of Physics, Allahabad University), Dr. Pramod Pande, (Retired Administrator JNMF, Anand Bhawan and former Director Jawahar Planetarium, Allahabad), Prof. Anita Gopesh

(Professor, Department of Zoology, Allahabad University), Dr. Anand Pathak (Associate Professor, Physics Department, Ewing Christian College, Allahabad), and Mr. Deepak Tiwari, Research Scholar, HRI gave introductory speeches at Vijayanagaram Hall. They appealed to all the participants to make the march a grand success. Mr. Dipyaman Pramanik, Research Scholar, HRI read out the memorandum. The march was well decorated and the participants had placards in their hands saying,

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Among the distinguished participants were Prof. M C Chattopadhyaya (Retired Professor and HOD, Department of Chemistry and Former President, Indian Chemical Society), Prof. Banlata Mahanti, (Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Allahabad University) Prof. V K Tiwari (Professor, Department of Physics, Allahabad University), Prof. P. S. Yadav (Professor, Dept of Physics, University of Allahabad), Dr.

India March for Science – Allahabad “Spend 3% of GDP for Science!”, “Spend 10% of GDP for Education to educate the next generation!”, “Stop spreading unscientific beliefs!”, “Science for Society, Science for Man, Science in Thinking!” etc. The march ended at historic Chandrasekhar Azad Park, where Prof. Ramendra Kumar Singh (Professor, Department of Chemistry, Allahabad University) gave the concluding speech and appealed to all the people present to strengthen the movement to save science.

Allahabad March

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Dr. R. C. Mittal (Associate professor and Head, Physics Dept, Ewing Christian College, Allahabad), Dr. S K Mishra (Assistant professor, Botany Dept, Ewing Christian College, Allahabad), Dr.Umesh Kr Yadav (Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Ewing Christian College, Allahabad),Dr. Lalji Yadav (Lecturer, Colonlganj Inter-College), Prof R. K. Anand (Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Allahabad University), Dr. S K Sazim (PDF, HRI), Dr. Satyendra Singh (PDF, HRI), Dr. G D Sharma (PDF, HRI), Dr. S Rejahari (PDF, HRI), Prof G C S. Yadav (Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, Allahabad University), Prof Satya Deo (Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, Allahabad University), Prof A K Chaturvedi (Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics,

India March for Science – Allahabad

Allahabad University), Prof Ramij Rahaman (Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, Allahabad University), Prof Anup Som (Assistant Professor, Department of Bio-Informatics, Allahabad University), Prof Pramod Katara (Assistant Professor, Department of Bio-Informatics, Allahabad University), Prof Prashant Khandar (Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, ECC, Allahabad) and many others. Mr. Dinesh Mohanta, Coordinator, India March for Science, Allahabad Chapter and All India Executive Committee Member, Breakthrough Science Society, thanked the participants for making the march a huge success. A memorandum, signed by these eminent personalities, was also submitted to the Prime Minister through the DM.

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India March for Science – Lucknow Lucknow: On 9th August, the Quit India Day, scientists of Lucknow got together and gave a call for removing ignorance, illiteracy and superstitions from the nation. In a seminar organised at UP Press Club, Lucknow, in support of the India March for Science, they also underlined the need for enhanced support for science and technology so that India can attain a lead position in the international sphere. Mr. J. P. Maurya, Convenor, Breakthrough Science Society, welcomed the gathering. Padma Shri Dr. Nitya Anand, former Director, Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) initiated the proceedings. Dr. Nitya Anand had circulated the appeal for the meet. He said that science understands events in a cause-and-effect framework making a person logical. When this knowledge is translated into useful applications,

technology is born. He said that higher allocation in the budget to science and technology as well as to education, particularly for the young, is the need of the hour. Dr. J. K. Johri, former NBRI scientist and secretary of the CSIR Pensioners’ Association elaborated how senior scientists, who have finished their innings in the laboratory, can contribute to social welfare. Science, he said, has a role outside laboratory too. Dr. Saman Habib of CDRI referred to the article 51 A(h) in the Indian constitution and said that scientific temper and the spirit of inquiry have been listed as duties because they are key to our social fabric. We should encourage children to ask questions and if this habit is formed early, it will be their life-long asset and lead to progress of our society.

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Dr. C M Nautiyal, who also coordinated the programme, said that we have a rich tradition in scholarship and we should advance it. The investment in education is a long term investment, but without that society will not progress. We shouldn’t miss the bus because once left behind, it will become more and more difficult to catch up with progress. Dr. Nitya Anand also administered 3 pledges to all the scientists, professors, scholars, students and others present—to cultivate scientific temper, maintain integrity and work for promoting S&T as well as conserving the environment.

India March for Science – Lucknow

The meet ended by paying tributes to the city scientist Dr. B. N. Dhawan and the eminent scientists Prof. U. R. Rao, Prof. Yash Pal and Dr. P. M. Bhargava who had passed away recently.

The meet was followed by a symbolic march with placards displaying photographs of scientists like Aryabhata, Srinivas Ramanujan, J C Bose, P C Ray, S N Bose, C V Raman and Einstein as well as messages and slogans to promote scientific temper and support for science.

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India March for Science – Lucknow

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India March for Science – PunePune: On August 9, the March started from Pune station at 5.30pm and ended at Ambedkar statue near the Collector's office. A large contingent of scientists, teachers, researchers and students numbering around 600, carrying placards displaying various demands participated in the march. Students walked with placards saying `August 9, 1942 - Quit India, August 9, 2017-Quit Ignorance' and `If science is expensive try ignorance'.

Vinita Bal, addressing the marchers said, “We will lag behind if science funding is not adequate. There are undue expectations while we pursue science. Lack of funds is frustrating for students and scientists. It is wrong to expect Nobel prizes and good research papers when there is no consistent funding”.

Hamid Dabholkar from Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti said, “The march has maximum participation from youths. We cannot progress without scientific temperament. Pseudo-science is being propagated, which we need to fight“

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India March for Science – Pune

Vivek Monteiro, Principal advisor, Navnirmiti Learning Foundation, said, “There are systematic attempts to promote hatred, anti-scientific, pseudo-scientific and non-scientific ideas. Text books are being modified and children are being made to learn unscientific stuff“.

“India cannot progress without scientific temperament. Superstition, mythology and distortion of history is leading to a feeling that we as a country are backward. Even educated people are following superstitions. Instead of taking up scientific outlook we are going backwards. Did we get Independence for this?“ 93-year-old Shanta Ranade said.

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India March for Science – Ahmedabad

On August 9, a Human Chain in support of ‘India March for Science’ was organised at 11am near Gujarat University, Ahmedabad. Renowned scientists like Dr. A. R. Prasanna, Dr. Raghwan Rangrajan and researchers from Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Faculty and students from CEPT University, students from different universities and colleges, educationists, writers, eminent citizens participated the human chain. More than 70 people participated in the programme. All of them put their signatures on the memorandum to the Prime Minister. The memorandum was submitted to the Governor of Gujarat.

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India March for Science – Ahmedabad

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India March for Science – Bhopal Bhopal: On August 9, a rally was organized at Shahpura Jheel in Bhopal under the banner ISPN, EKLAVYA, IDWA and Breakthrough Science Society. Scientists, teachers and science loving people participated in the rally in support of the India March for Science. Mr. Vikas Bansal, State coordinator of BSS appealed to the gathering to spread the message of the India March for Science and strengthen the movement. Ms Asha Mishra of ISPN coordinated the program.

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India March for Science – Agartala In Tripura, the March for Science was held in the capital city Agartala on August 8, 2017. The March began from Rabindra Shatobarshiki Bhawan at 5 pm and ended at the City Centre. More than 100 participants including professors, teachers, students, researchers and science loving people took part in the march organised by Breakthrough Science Society and All India Save Education Committee, State chapter. On behalf of BSS Tripura Chapter, Prof. Alak Satpati spoke about the importance of the demands raised by the India March for Science. Shri Harakishore Bhowmick spoke on behalf of All India Save Education Committee. Shri Raju Acharjee, Secretary of BSS Tripura chapter coordinated the program with the help of other science activists.

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India March for Science – Pondicherry

On August 9, the march began at 4.30 pm from the BSNL Head Office and proceeded to Gandhi statue in beach. The marchers carried placards displaying the demands of the India March for Science. A large number of teachers, students and general public participated in the march. At the end of the march Mr. Dakshinamurty from Pondicherry Science Forum addressed the gathering. Mr. Prasanna Venkadesh coordinated the program in Pondicherry.

Mr. Dakshinamurthy (Pondicherry Science Forum) speaking

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India March for Science – Chandigarh

Chandigarh: On August 9, scientists, teachers and research scholars from IISER, INST, PU, PGIMER, GMCH, UIET and PEC, Chandigarh gathered at Plaza, Sector-17 and took out a decorative silent march holding placards displaying the demands of the India March for Science. In spite of heavy rains in Chandigarh, more than 500 people participated in the March. Members of the scientific community representing different institutes addressed the gathering and spoke on the demands raised by the India March for Science. A Solidarity message from the organizers of International March for Science was read out. Among those who addressed included Inder Singh, Amol Amodkar, Nishat Fiza, Rohan Sharma, Aswin G.S, Prof. Manjit Singh, Satnam Daun, Yashpal, Prof. Arvind, Dr. Pyarellal Garg, Dr. Hardev, Dr. Anuradha, Manu Kant, Avocate Loveneeth Thakur and Jashvinder Ruppal. A memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister was submitted to the Governor.

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India March for Science – Gangtok, Sikkim

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India March for Science – Patna

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India March for Science – Ranchi

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India March for Science – Guwahati

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India March for Science – Tirupati, AP A Science March was organised in Tirupati city on August 9. Scientists, professors, teachers and students numbering around 300 participated in the march. Prof O. M. D. Hussain, HOD, Dept. of Physics, S. V. University inaugurated the March. Prof N. V. V. Jyothi (S. V. University), Mr. Vijay Kumara (S. V. Degree college), Dr. Ramesh, Sri Nagaraju, Sri Azmal Basha and Sri Sharma participated in the march and addressed the gathering.

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India March for Science – Kurnool, AP

A rally was organized in Kurnool city on August 9. Teachers and students numbering 300 participated. Kurnool city BSS President Mr. Sriman Narayana spoke about the demands raised by the India March for Science. Mr. Harish, Dhanunjaya, Sarath and Mithra also spoke.

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India March for Science – Dharwad Breakthrough Science Society organised the event in Karnataka in association with other science organisations in the state. In the preparatory phase of the event hundreds of school children designed posters and thousands of people signed the banner in support of the demands raised by the India March for Science Initiative. In Karnataka, around 6000 people hit the streets in 12 cities, on Aug 9 at the call of the India March For Science to defend science and scientific temper.

Dharwad: Around 800 professors, scientists, college and school students as well as general public marched from Kalabhavan Maidan to Patil Puttappa Sabha Bhavan. Dr. Iqbal Shaik (Renowned Cardiologist and Physician) flagged off the march. Prof. M. I. Savadatti (Former VC of Mangalore University), presided over the hall meeting at Patil Puttappa Sabbha Bhavan. Prof. M. I. Savadatti is also the Advisor to the Karnataka state organising panel of the India March for Science. Dr. Chandragirish (Principal, Vidya Nidhi PU College, Raichur also State Vice-President, Breakthrough Science Society) and Dr. Gopal Dabde (President, All India Drug Action Network) spoke on the occasion.

Prof M. I. Savadatti (ex-VC, Mangalore University) addressing the gathering at Dharwad.

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India March for Science – Mysore Around 300 scientists, research scholars, post-graduate students, graduate students, school children and general public participated in Mysore. Prof. P. Venkataramaiah (Former VC Kuvempu University) flagged off the march. The march started at Ramaswami circle and culminated at Vishwamanavapark. Prof. P. Venkataramaiah (Former VC Kuvempu University), Sreemathi Hariprasad (KRVP,Chief editor Balavignana), Dr. M. M. Shenoy (Agriculture scientist (retd.)), research scholars from People for Science forum, Dr. G. Sudha (Breakthrough Science Society) spoke on the occasion.

L-R: Prof. Shankar Bhat (Botany Dept., University of Mysore), Dr.M.M.Shenoy (Agriculture scientist, retd.), Mr. Krishnamurty (Retd. engineer, CFTRI), Prof P. Venkataramaiah (Former VC Kuvempu university), Major Gen Dr. Sudhir G. Vombatkere, Sreemati Hariprasad (KRVP Chief editor Balavijjana)

Gathering at Dharwad

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India March for Science – Kalaburagi Around 800 people including professors, research scholars, college and school students participated in the India March for Science event in Kalburgi. Prof. G. R. Naik, Pro VC of Central University of Karnataka flagged off the March and spoke at the Public Meeting. Prof. Ramesh Londonkar, Chairman, Bio technology department, Gulbarga University, also spoke at the meeting. Abhaya Diwakar (District President, Breakthrough Science Society) in his speech remembered the 75th year of Quit India Movement. The march was held from Mini VidhanaSoudha to Indira Smaraka Bhavana.

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India March for Science – Bijapur

Around 800 professors, lecturers, teachers and students marched from Siddeshwara Temple to Ambedkar Circle. Prof. Sanjeevkumar Yaliballi (Akkamahadevi Women’s University) flagged off the march and spoke on the occasion. Sharath P. K. (Convenor, Bijapur, Breakthrough Science Society), Gururaj Bommanahalli, Geeta Patil (BSS) and Raghavendra (KJVS), Jagadish Gulaganji (Science teacher) and others participated in the march.

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India March for Science – Chitradurga & Tumkur The India march for science in chitradurga saw a participation of over 500 people. The event was organised by Breakthrough Science Society in association with Chitradurga Science Centre, Lions Club, IT Dealers Association and Gubacchi nature club. The march started at Government Science College and culminated at the District Commissioner’s office. Prof. K. K. Kamane (Government Science College) flagged off the march. Litterateur Chandrashekhar Talya, Mr. Vivek Madhure (District In-charge Breakthrough Science Society), Mr. Dasegowda (Secretary, Chitradurga Science Centre), Mr. Vijay Kumar (Lion’s Club), Mr. Mahesh (IT Dealers Association) and Mr. G. S. Ujjinappa (Senior Journalist) spoke on the occasion.

Tumkur: Around 200 lecturers, science communicators, students and general public participated in the India March for Science at Tumkur which started at Town Hall and culminated at Bal Bhavan. Mr. Yathiraj, Mr. Dorai Raj (PUCL), Smt. B. H. Ramakumari (Kannada SahityaParishat President), Mr. S. N. Swamy and Ms. Ashwini (BSS), Mr. C. Vishwanath (Tumkur Science Centre), Mr. Nitish (Signa centre) spoke on the occasion. Ms. Rajeshwari (Breakthrough Science Society) conducted the program.

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India March for Science – DavanagereThe March began at Vidyanagar Gandhi Circle in Davangere. Prof. B. B. Nandyal flagged off the march. Dr. S. Shishupala (HOD of Microbiology Dept, Davangere University), Dr. Vasudhendra (State Secretary, Medical Service Centre), Mr. Manjunath (District Convenor, BSS) and Mr. Santhosh (Member, BSS) addressed the gathering.

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India March for Science – Ballari Around 1000 lecturers, doctors, students and general public participated in the India March for Science at Ballari.

Raichur: More than 200 students, lecturers and general public participated in the India March for Science at Raichur.

Hospet and Belgaum: In Hospet and Belgaum marches were conducted. Around 100people participated each program.

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India March for Science – Palakkad & Ernakulam

Palakkad: A “Vilambara Jatha” was organized on 7th August, 2017 at Chittoor, Palakkad on behalf of Madame Curie Science Club affiliated to Breakthrough Science Society. A good number of students and science activists participated in the programme. Adv. P. Jayapalamenon inaugurated the meeting at Anicode junction which was presided over by K. M. Beevi, State Executive Committee member, Breakthrough Science Society. President of the Science Club, A.Hazeena and A. Sajeena also addressed the gathering. Aiswarya R., Daya K., Aswathi R., Sreeshma and Nirupama P. led the march.

“Vilambara Jatha” organized on 7 August 2017 at Chittoor,Palakkad

Ernakulam: A ‘Walk for Science’ was organised at Marine Drive, Ernakulam, on 6th August 2017. Sri. P. P. Sajeevkumr and Sri. Salvin addressed the gathering. Another meeting was organised at Tripunithura on 8th August 2017 as part of the campaign work for India March for Science. Sri N. R. Mohankumar presided over the function. Sri. P. P. Sajeevkumr inaugurated the meeting. Aswathi G. Babu also spoke at the function

A seminar on Science in Ancient India - Reality versus Myth was conducted at Keechery Public Library, Chalakkapara, Kanjiramattam on 4th August 2017. Mr. Harikumar K. S. was the main speaker. Campaign for the India March for Science was done in several educational institutions including Maharaja's College, St. Theresa's College and UC College.

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India March for Science – Alappuzha

‘Walk for Science’ organised at Marine Drive, Ernakulam

Alappuzha: A district level programme was organized at Alappuzha Beach in support of the India March for Science. Dr. K. G. Padmakumar, an environmental scientist inaugurated the programme. Dr. K. Hariprasad and Sri. K.Sivanutty were the other speakers. The meeting was presided over by Sri. T. Viswakumar.

India march for Science district level programme at Alappuzha Beach

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Thrissur: A Seminar was organized in Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Peechi, Thrissur district on 8th August 2017. Dr. M. P. Parameswaran, science activist and former President, AIPSN was the main speaker. Dr.S.Sankar, former scientist, KFRI presented his views. Dr. P. S. Babu, presented the programme of the India March for Science. Director, staff and researchers took part in the interactions. A seminar was also organised in Model Girls Higher Secondary School, Thrissur on 8th August, 2017. Dr. Babu and Dr. Mukundan were the speakers

India March for Science – Thrissur & Kottayam

Convention on India March for Science at Kottayam

Kottayam: On 6th August 2017, Breakthrough Science Society, Thiruvarppu unit organised a convention, in connection with India March for Science programme at Trivandrum. Adv. V. K. Sathyavan Nair inaugurated the convention. Prof. P. N. Thankachan, Secretary BSS Kerala chapter , Sri. Sudheesh A.N.(Secretary,BSS, Thiruvarppu unit), Kunjumon Kurian (President, BSS Thiruvarppu unit) and Mr. E. V. Prakash were the speakers. On 5th August 2017 a March for Science was organized at Kottayam town. The march was inaugurated by Dr. Punnan Kurian, Principal St. Marys College, Manarkadu, Kottayam.

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India March for Science – Kannur Kannur: A science activists get together was organised in Kannur on 7th August 2017 giving a clarion call to make the India March for Science’ a grand success. Speaking on the occasion, the main speaker of the programme. Dr. Shajahan. T. K., Assistant Professor Dept. of physics National institute of Technology, Suratkal said that even though science in India is facing grave dangers it is satisfying to see that scientists of India at last have risen to wage a protest openly coming out from their cozy laboratory spaces and offices.

Dr. Shajahan T. K. (NIT, Suratkal) addressing the gathering at Kannur

Dr. Sreekumaran E., Head of Life science department, Calicut University, Dr. D. Surendranath, an eminent environmental and social activist also spoke on the occasion. Earlier the programme was inaugurated by Sri Saji K. P, Assistant Professor, Government College of Engineering, Kannur. Advocate P. C. Vivek, District Secretary, Breakthrough Science Society, Kannur, presided over the function. Paul T. Samuel welcomed the gathering and Akil Murali expressed vote of thanks.

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India March for Science – Jorhat, Assam

March at Jorhat, Assam

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India March for Science – Gwalior, MP In Gwalior, a science seminar was organized on August 12 in support of the India March for Science. Professors, teachers and students from various colleges and schools participated in the program. Tributes were paid to the eminent scientists of our country Dr. U. R. Rao, Dr. P. M. Bhargava and Prof. Yashpal who had passed away recently. Prof Santosh Yadav of Kamala Raja Girls College addressed the gathering. Video clippings of the India March for Science on August 9 from different parts of the county were shown to the audience. The Program was coordinated by Ms. Sadhna.

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India March for Science – Guna, MP On August 13, a convention was organized in Modern Children Higher Secondary School, Guna. Ms. Suman Kirar welcomed the participants. Dr. Ghanshyam Srivastava, Retd. Principal of Govt. Higher Secondary School and district coordinator of National Children Science Congress congratulated the organizers and spoke on the issues raised by the India March for Science. Mr. H. N. Jatav, Principal, Myana Higher Secondary School, in his speech appealed to the students to fight against the all kinds of superstitions in the society. Prof. Ravindra Goliya from J. P. University and Mr. S. K. Rajoria, Retd. Engineer also spoke in the convention. Around 200 students from different schools and colleges participated in the convention. Mr. Vikas Bansal thanked the speakers and the participants. An advisory committee was constituted to take the movement further.

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India March for Science – Ashoknagar, MP In the Ashoknagar district, two seminar programs were organized on August 14, one in Tara Sadan Senior Secondary School and the second one in Govt. Polytechnic College. In Tara Sadan School, Dr. P. Mishra was the main speaker. He appealed to the students to cultivate scientific approach in day to day life for eliminating the superstitions prevalent in the society.

In the program at the Govt. Polytechnic College, the Principal congratulated the organizers and welcomed the gathering. Professor K. N. Jha in his address spoke about the objectives of the India March for Science program. Mr. Vikas Bansal and Er. S. K. Rajoria also spoke in the seminar. A good number of students and staff members participated in the seminar.

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India March for Science – Dewas, MP Students from two colleges and three schools participated in the solidarity meet organized in Thribhuvans Science College, Dewas on August 11. Around 150 students and 10 faculty members participated in the program. Dr. P. Mishra, the main speaker explained the issues raised by the India March for Science. Mr. Manohar from Dewas and Mr. Vikas Bansal, State co-coordinator of Breakthrough Science Society spoke about the need to cultivate scientific temper for the progress of society.

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India March for Science – Uttarakhand

Srinagar-Garhwal March

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India March for Science – Wardha, MH On August 9, the March started from Magan Sangrahalay and concluded near the Collectors Office, Wardha. About 150 people from different walks of life - scientists, teachers, researchers and students participated in the March. Dr. Alok Bang addressing the gathering said : August 9 is the day the Quit India movement began exactly 75 years ago, today it serves as a great symbol for demanding that ‘Un-scientific and pseudo-scientific attitudes quit India’. He also stressed that scientists need to take science out of the labs to the people so as to spread scientific temper in the society.

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India March for Science – Madurai & Villupuram

Madurai: In Madurai a solidarity meet was organised on August 9. Professors, teachers and students from various colleges assembled at the Gandhi Museum hall at 2.30 pm. Ms. P. Selvi, the Convenor presided. The meeting began by paying homage to the eminent scientists of our country, Prof. U. R. Rao, Prof. Yashpal and Prof P. M. Bhargava who had passed away very recently. Prof. P. Rajamanickam (All India Peoples Science Network), Dr. Krishnasamy ( Former Professor, Madurai Kamraj University), Prof. D. Barnabas (American College) and Mr. Voltaire M. J. spoke on the various demands raised by the India March for Science.

Villupuram: In Villupuram, a solidarity meet in support of the India March for Science was organised on August 9 at Bothi IAS Academy, Shanthi Nilayam. Mr Noor Ahmed, President, Consumer Protection Association, presided. Homage was paid to Prof. U. R. Rao, Prof. Yashpal and Prof. P. M. Bhargava who had passed away very recently. Mr. Sakthivel, Mr. Gotham Surendran, Mr. R. Ramamurthy and Mr. A. Anavaradhan spoke on the necessity to support the demands raised by the India March for Science.

Madurai March

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India March for Science – Nagercoil, TN

A view of the gathering at Nagercoil

Nagercoil: India March for Science and a candle light vigil to remember Hiroshima and Nagasaki was organised at Meenakshipuram bus stand, Nagercoil on August 9. Dr. Sundaram and Dr. S. P. Udayakumar addressed the gathering. Mr. K. Prasad of AIPF coordinated the program.

Dr. S. P. Udayakumar (PMANE) addressing

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Press Coverage

Italy

Science, http://science.sciencemag.org

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Nature

Press Coverage

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Press Coverage

Indian Express

Frontline

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Al Jazeera

Press Coverage

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First Post

Press Coverage

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New Delhi

Support from abroad for India March for Science Along with tremendous response in India, from scientists, professors, scholars, teachers, students, and science and education loving people, support from the international community - Indian scholars studying abroad poured in, giving the India March for Science, an international dimension.

Barcelona, Spain

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Support from abroad for India March for Science

Colorado, Boulder, USA

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Rochester, New York, USA

Dartmouth, New Hampshire, USA

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Bonn, Germany

Tel Aviv, Isreal

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Munich, Germany

Helsinki, Finland Melbourne, Australia

The science community in India made a great start on 9 Aug, 2017. As many participants and signatories have explicitly aspired, the task now is to keep up the momentum and build on the gains.

Documents

India March for Science