The Ministry of Culture recently organized a curtain raiser event for the two days International Conference themed, “Contributions of Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray as a Chemist and Freedom Fighter.” This event was held at the Department of Chemistry, Delhi.
Details about the Conference
The conference is scheduled to take place on 2nd-3rd August 2022 in honour of Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray’s 161st birth anniversary. Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is overseeing the conference’s organization. It will coincide with the Department of Chemistry’s centenary year celebrations along with the University of Delhi. Vijnana Bharti (VIBHA) will co-organize it with Indraprastha Vigyan Bharti, New Delhi, and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, New Delhi.
The conference aims to celebrate and expand the societal contributions made by Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray. It also intends to boost general awareness about ancient chemistry and its importance in the modern world.
Modernising Education in line with 21st Century Goals
Aligning with the aspirational objectives of a 21st-century education system, including SDG4 (Quality Education), this event will mark a significant shift away from the traditional 1980s concept. The government is making efforts to integrate India’s traditions and value systems into the modern education landscape.
About Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray
Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray (1861-1944) is famously known as the “Father of Indian Chemistry.” Ray was an acclaimed Indian scientist, chemical researcher, and a notable teacher. He received his training at the University of Edinburgh, served at Presidency College in Calcutta, and later at Calcutta University. He discovered the stable compound Mercurous Nitrite in 1895.
Ray’s scientific achievements earned him recognition from the British Government, honoring him with the imperial title of CIE (Companion of the Indian Empire) and Knighthood in 1919. In 1920, he was elected the General President of the Indian Science Congress.
Ray’s Contributions to Nationalism and Social Reform
Ray, a nationalist at heart, encouraged Bengalis to excel in the world of enterprise. Setting a personal example, Ray established a chemical firm, the Bengal Chemical and Pharmaceutical Works, in 1901.
He was a fervent rationalist who opposed the caste system and other irrational social practices. He devoted his life to social reformations. To commemorate his Birth Anniversary, India Post issued a postage stamp in his honor on 2nd August 1961.