Dr Geetha Vani Rayasam takes charge as CSIR-NIScPR Director. Explore her vision for science communication, STI policy, global collaborations, and relevance for government exams.
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam Assumes Charge as Director of CSIR-NIScPR
On September 9, 2025, Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam officially took over as the Director of the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR). In her inaugural address, Dr. Rayasam emphasized the need for a transformative approach to science communication and Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy. She highlighted the importance of adopting agile and flexible models to remain relevant in the age of Artificial Intelligence, digital platforms, and fast-evolving global challenges. Dr. Rayasam stressed that NIScPR must play a pivotal role in shaping national and international STI policy by moving beyond conventional approaches and focusing on contemporary needs
Vision for Science Communication and STI Policy
Dr. Rayasam introduced the theme “Connecting the Unconnected,” urging NIScPR to serve as a role model for the Global South and the world. She emphasized the need to align science communication with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and encouraged the development of high-quality Indian journals, digital platforms, citizen science initiatives, and science–art collaborations to expand public engagement. She also pointed out that in the evolving landscape of science communication, digital literacy, responsible use of social media, and proactive engagement with artificial intelligence tools will be critical for ensuring trust and credibility
Strengthening Partnerships and Global Collaborations
Dr. Rayasam underscored the importance of partnerships in advancing NIScPR’s mission. She suggested that initiatives such as the Science Media Communication Cell (SMCC) and SVASTIK could collaborate more closely with the Ministry of AYUSH, Ministry of Education, science museums, and other stakeholders. She also recommended joint projects with international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), World Bank, United Nations (UN), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and industry bodies, to strengthen the institute’s global footprint
Commitment to a Future-Ready, India-Centric Institute
Concluding her address, Dr. Rayasam emphasized that NIScPR must evolve as a future-ready, India-centric global institute and a leader in science communication and policy research. The ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries, including Dr. Naresh Kumar, Chief Scientist and FAO; Shri R.K.S. Roushan, COA; and Ms. Gurmeet Kaur, FAO, along with other staff members of CSIR-NIScPR
Why This News Is Important
Relevance to Government Exams
The appointment of Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam as the Director of CSIR-NIScPR is significant for students preparing for various government exams, including those for positions in the civil services, research institutions, and policy-making bodies. Her vision for transforming science communication and STI policy aligns with the government’s emphasis on innovation, digital literacy, and global collaborations. Understanding her approach provides insights into current trends in science policy and communication, which are pertinent to subjects like Science and Technology, Governance, and International Relations in competitive exams.
Implications for Science and Technology Policy
Dr. Rayasam’s focus on agile STI policies and the integration of digital platforms and AI tools reflects the evolving landscape of science and technology governance. Her emphasis on aligning science communication with SDGs underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable development. These developments are crucial for aspirants aiming for roles in policy-making and research institutions, as they highlight the government’s strategic priorities in science and technology.
Historical Context
Background of CSIR-NIScPR
CSIR-NIScPR was established on April 1, 2021, following the merger of the erstwhile CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (CSIR-NISCAIR) and CSIR-National Institute of Science, Technology and Development Studies (CSIR-NISTADS). The merger aimed to create a unified institute that serves as a think tank for India’s science, technology, and innovation system, leading science communication and policy studies at the national level
Dr. Rayasam’s Career Trajectory
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from IISc Bengaluru and has post-doctoral experience at the Institut de génétique et de biologie moléculaire et cellulaire (IGBMC), France, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA. She has worked in industries such as Ranbaxy (Daiichi-Sankyo) and Smart Analyst in areas of new drug discovery and development. Prior to her appointment as Director of CSIR-NIScPR, Dr. Rayasam served as the Head of CSIR-Human Resource Development Group (HRDG) and also led the Science Communication and Dissemination Directorate (SCDD) at CSIR Headquarters
Key Takeaways from “Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam Assumes Charge as Director of CSIR-NIScPR”
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Appointment: Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam appointed as Director of CSIR-NIScPR on September 9, 2025. |
| 2 | Vision: Advocates for agile STI policies and future-ready science communication. |
| 3 | Theme: Emphasizes “Connecting the Unconnected” to bridge gaps in science communication. |
| 4 | Focus Areas: Aligning science communication with SDGs and promoting digital literacy. |
| 5 | Global Collaborations: Encourages partnerships with international organizations and stakeholders. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who has recently taken charge as the Director of CSIR-NIScPR?
Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam took charge as the Director of CSIR-NIScPR on September 9, 2025.
2. What is the vision introduced by Dr. Rayasam for CSIR-NIScPR?
Her vision is “Connecting the Unconnected,” focusing on agile science communication, integration of digital platforms, and AI tools for policy research.
3. How does Dr. Rayasam plan to align science communication with global priorities?
She emphasizes aligning science communication with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting citizen science, science-art collaborations, and digital literacy.
4. What are some key global partnerships suggested by Dr. Rayasam for CSIR-NIScPR?
She suggested collaborations with WHO, UN, World Bank, OECD, IIMs, Ministries like AYUSH and Education, and industry bodies to strengthen global impact.
5. What is the historical background of CSIR-NIScPR?
CSIR-NIScPR was formed in 2021 by merging CSIR-NISCAIR and CSIR-NISTADS to create a unified institute for science communication and policy research in India.
6. What is Dr. Rayasam’s academic and professional background?
She holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from IISc Bengaluru, postdoctoral experience at IGBMC (France) and NIH (USA), and has experience in drug discovery and science communication leadership.
7. Why is this news relevant for government exam aspirants?
Understanding this appointment and her vision helps aspirants in subjects like Science & Technology, Governance, and International Relations, which are part of exams like UPSC, SSC, banking, and other competitive exams.
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