International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Scientific Consciousness and Social Change in Puducherry: A Historical Perspective

After India's independence, several science organizations emerged India. These science organizations actively promoted scientific awareness, environmental conservation, and engaged in various social movements. Basically, the Science Movement has become a role-model to other science organizations, working in the domain. Within the larger context of the working domain of ‘science for society’, the Pondicherry Science Forum (PSF) was established in Puducherry in 1985. The social and economic structure of this small union territory of India was still largely dependent on agriculture and limited educational opportunities. In this situation, a group of young scientists, teachers, and social workers believed that science was not limited to laboratories—instead, it was a powerful means of social change. The main goal of PSF was to combat poverty, illiteracy, and social backwardness through the application of science. The founder members of PSF firmly believed that science was not just knowledge; it was a kind of social conscience. This scientific temper can inspire the ordinary person to think rationally and critically. This idea later became the basis of all their activities. They define themselves as "a non-profit, voluntary, and public interest organization" whose mission is to incorporate science into policymaking and promote scientific literacy and rational thinking in society.