The State Level Celebration of National Science Day was held at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, on February 28 on the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat.” National Science Day is celebrated across the nation to honour CV Raman for discovering the Raman Effect, marking a historic scientific milestone while promoting scientific temper, research, and innovation.
On the occasion, Nagaland also observed the first-ever Nagaland Science & Technology Award Ceremony under the Nagaland Science Mission, an innovative initiative by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Nagaland, launched in FY 2024–25 to promote science and technology development in the state.
Principal Secretary, I Himato Zhimomi, Department of Science & Technology, in his keynote address, highlighted that the awards marked the first-ever recognition by the state government of pioneers in science and technology, and expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for supporting the mission. He noted that such initiatives would play a crucial role in catalysing the country towards Viksit Bharat in the coming days.
He also observed that the world today is witnessing intense competition over limited resources, mentioning the imminent trade war happening globally, which, he said, revolves largely around science and technology.
Referring to the growing number of unemployed youths and the hundreds of graduates emerging from Nagaland every year, Zhimomi remarked that the science stream would offer greater opportunities and is unlikely to face unemployment in the future.
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He emphasized that science and technology must form the fundamental basis of the society. Citing China as an example, he stated that the country has advanced ahead by investing heavily in science and technology.
He further stated that Nagaland requires a clear sense of direction and should not lag behind others. Those working within the state should be scientifically and technologically capable, while those sent outside Nagaland for employment should also excel in these fields.
Expressing optimism, he said Nagaland would take concrete steps towards Viksit Bharat with the support of young minds, particularly women, in catalysing the state to become equal partners with the rest of India.
As part of the celebration, awards were conferred under the Nagaland Science Mission. The first-ever Girl Child Award 2025 was presented to Sashimongla I Longkumer of Government High School, Longjang, Mokokchung, for securing 98% in Science and Mathematics in the ESLE 2025 under the Government Schools category. The award carries a certificate and ₹20,000 cash prize.
Under the Research Grants for Indigenous Nagas of Nagaland 2025, four R&D projects were approved for implementation (2025–2027), with each recipient receiving ₹5 lakh.
The awardees are:
Dr. Visesato Mor (NIST, Kohima) for establishing Nagaland’s first Galleria mellonella facility for pathogenicity and drug discovery studies.
Dr. Samadangla Ao (Kohima Science College, Jotsoma) for research on optimizing the jhum agro-ecosystem.
Dr. Limamanen Phom (Sao Chang College, Tuensang) for a study on ichthyofaunal diversity and ecology of selected rivers in Noklak district.
Thsope Medo (Nagaland Science & Technology Council, Kohima) for a pilot study on tree Diversity Mapping and Landscape Assessment of the Japfu Range.
The Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology 2025 award, carrying ₹1 lakh, was jointly conferred for the first time on Dr (Prof. Rtd) Sapu Changkija for his contributions to ethnobotany and sustainable farming systems, and Dr Vinotsole Khamo (Dr Tina) for advancing clinical research and medical science facilities in Nagaland.
The Young Scientist Award 2025 was presented to Dr Imlisongla Aier, a Ph.D. graduate from IIT Delhi, for her work in clean energy, indoor air quality, and environmental health. The award carries a citation and ₹1 lakh.
The programme featured welcome address by Zeneikhonuo Vimero, Joint Secretary and Ex-Officio Director, Department of Science & Technology; short speeches by the awardee; a science drama by students of PM Shri Government High School, Thahekhu, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Kekuneil Ltu. The event was anchored by Asano Zashu.
