DHR and ICMR to Host Second Edition of S.H.I.N.E. School Outreach Programme in August 2026

Key Facts

• S.H.I.N.E. stands for Science, Health and Innovation for NextGen Explorers.
• The programme is jointly organized by the Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• The second edition of S.H.I.N.E. is scheduled for 11–12 August 2026, covering 83 locations across India.
• It targets students from Classes 9 to 12, including those from government, government-aided, and private schools.
• Estimated participation for 2026 is about 30,000 students, more than twice the number from the inaugural 2025 edition.
• Activities include guided laboratory tours, research exhibitions, live demonstrations, and direct interactions with health scientists.
• These events are free of cost and held at ICMR institutes, DHR-Model Rural Health Research Units (MRHRUs), and affiliated field units, including urban and rural locations.
• The 2026 edition commemorates the birth anniversary and legacy of Prof. V. Ramalingaswami, former Director General of ICMR and a distinguished medical scientist.
• The programme incorporates a national-level competition where students propose solutions to public health challenges, aligned with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision (India’s centenary year goal).

Background & Context

The S.H.I.N.E. school outreach initiative was launched in 2025 to ignite scientific curiosity and encourage students to consider careers in biomedical and health research. It supports the Prime Minister’s call for students to “spend one day as a scientist” by providing immersive, hands-on experiences in leading research institutes. The inclusion of Model Rural Health Research Units extends access to rural and semi-urban students, ensuring wide geographical diversity and inclusiveness.

Prof. V. Ramalingaswami’s legacy is celebrated through this initiative, highlighting his pioneering role in Indian medical research and public health.

Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance

Knowledge of S.H.I.N.E. aligns with the UPSC and other competitive exams’ focus on current government initiatives fostering scientific temper and innovation. Questions may probe:

• The role of DHR and ICMR in promoting health research and education.
• Objectives and activities of the S.H.I.N.E. programme.
• Significance of Prof. V. Ramalingaswami in biomedical research.
• The concept and importance of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
• Government efforts to engage youth in public health and biomedical innovation.

Points to Remember

• The S.H.I.N.E. initiative is a biennial, nationwide school outreach programme for students in grades 9–12.
• The 2026 edition occurs on 11–12 August across 83 locations with approximately 30,000 participants.
• Organized by DHR and ICMR with participation from government, government-aided, and private schools.
• Programme components: lab tours, research exhibitions, live demonstrations, and interaction with scientists—all offered free of cost.
• Focus on exposing students to biomedical research and public health innovation, encouraging scientific curiosity and career interest.
• 2026 edition honors Prof. V. Ramalingaswami and includes a national competition to address public health challenges under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.