The Department of Health Research-Indian Council of Medical Research (DHR-ICMR) is organizing the second edition of S.H.I.N.E. (Science and Health Innovation for NextGen Explorers) on August 11-12, 2026, as a nationwide school outreach initiative. The program responds to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for students to "spend one day as a scientist" and will be hosted across 83 locations including ICMR institutes, DHR-Model Rural Health Research Units (MRHRUs), and affiliated field units. Approximately 30,000 students from Grades 9-12 from both government and private schools are expected to participate through invitation-based selection, with ICMR laboratories inviting nearby schools to take part in the initiative.
During the two-day program, students will engage in interactive activities including guided laboratory tours, research exhibitions, poster walks, video presentations, and live demonstrations of ongoing scientific work. The initiative provides students with direct interaction opportunities with ICMR scientists, offering insights into their research journeys, areas of expertise, and everyday work in public health. The program aims to make science tangible and accessible while demonstrating how research addresses health challenges facing local communities.
Aligned with India's Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, S.H.I.N.E. seeks to encourage scientific curiosity for public health solutions among young learners and inspire the next generation of researchers who will contribute to the country's health and development goals. Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of Department of Health Research and Director General of ICMR, welcomed participating students and encouraged them to maximize this opportunity to explore scientific research and innovation firsthand.