Report on Industrial Visit to National Physical Laboratory (NPL) – Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on Foundation Day
Organized By: Department of Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
Title: Industrial Visit to National Physical Laboratory (NPL) – Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
(CSIR) on Foundation Day
Institution Visited: NPL – CSIR
Date & Time: 5th January 2026, 10 am onwards
Venue: National Physical Laboratory (NPL) – Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi
1. Introduction
The Department of Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, Dr. Akhilesh Das Gupta Institute of Professional Studies, organized an industrial visit to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Physical Laboratory (CSIR–NPL), New Delhi, on the occasion of its Foundation Day on 5th January 2026. The visit was aimed at providing students with exposure to India’s premier national laboratory and to commemorate the institute’s contributions to science and technology since its establishment.
CSIR–NPL, established in 1947, is India’s National Metrology Institute and plays a vital role in maintaining national standards of measurement and promoting advanced research in physical sciences. The Foundation Day celebrations provided a unique opportunity for students to witness the legacy, achievements, and future vision of the institute while interacting with eminent scientists and researchers.
The visit helped students understand how cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, and computational modeling are increasingly being integrated with experimental physics, metrology, and applied research to solve real-world problems.
2. Objectives of the Visit
The primary objectives of the industrial visit were:
- To familiarize students with the role and significance of CSIR–NPL as India’s National Metrology Institute.
- To understand the scientific and technological contributions of NPL in diverse domains of physical sciences.
- To explore the applications of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science in scientific research, modeling, and analysis.
- To provide practical exposure to advanced laboratories and precision instruments.
- To inspire students towards research-oriented and interdisciplinary career paths.
- To create awareness about internship, fellowship, and collaborative research opportunities at CSIR laboratories.
3. About CSIR – National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
CSIR–National Physical Laboratory, located in New Delhi, is a premier research organization dedicated to physical sciences, standards, and measurements. It supports national development by ensuring accuracy, reliability, and uniformity in measurements across industries and research institutions.
Major areas of research and activity at CSIR–NPL include:
- Time and Frequency Standards: Maintenance and dissemination of Indian Standard Time (IST).
- Precision Metrology: Standards for length, mass, temperature, electrical and optical measurements.
- Quantum Physics and Nanoscience: Research on quantum materials, superconductors, and nano-devices.
- Environmental Science: Air quality monitoring, climate studies, and sustainability research.
- Materials Science and Sensors: Development of advanced materials and sensing technologies.
- Healthcare Technologies: Biosensors and diagnostic instrumentation.
CSIR–NPL collaborates extensively with industries, academic institutions, and government bodies, contributing significantly to national missions related to energy, healthcare, digitalization, and climate change.
4. Summary of the Visit
4.1 Foundation Day Orientation Session
The visit commenced with a special Foundation Day orientation session, where senior scientists and officials of CSIR–NPL addressed the participants. The session highlighted the historical journey, achievements, and societal impact of NPL since its inception. Students were briefed on the institute’s vision, ongoing research programs, and global collaborations.
4.2 Laboratory Visits and Demonstrations
Students were taken on a guided tour of various laboratories, where they observed advanced instruments and ongoing experiments. Key laboratories visited included:
- Time and Frequency Standards Laboratory: Demonstration of atomic clocks and the generation of Indian Standard Time, crucial for communication, navigation, and defense systems.
- Nanoscience and Quantum Materials Laboratory: Insights into research on nanomaterials, quantum devices, and advanced sensors.
- Environmental Monitoring Laboratory: Presentation of AI-enabled systems for air quality analysis, data collection, and pollution prediction.
- Laser and Optics Laboratory: Demonstrations of laser-based measurements, spectroscopy, and optical communication technologies.
- Sound and Acoustics Laboratory: Applications of acoustics and ultrasonic techniques in material testing, medical imaging, and noise analysis.
- Metrology Laboratories: Exposure to precision measurement systems for length, mass, temperature, and electrical quantities.
4.3 Interaction with Scientists
An interactive session with NPL scientists was a major highlight of the visit. Students actively engaged in discussions on the use of AI and machine learning in experimental data analysis, material discovery, climate modelling, and signal processing. The scientists emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary skills combining physics, mathematics, and data science.
4.4 Research Highlights and Case Studies
During the visit, students were introduced to several impactful research initiatives of CSIR–NPL, such as:
- AI-driven air quality monitoring and forecasting systems.
- Development of cost-effective biosensors for healthcare applications.
- Research in quantum communication and secure data transmission.
- Innovations in renewable energy materials and sustainable technologies.
4.5 Career and Research Opportunities
The session concluded with guidance on academic and research careers. Students were informed about CSIR internships, PhD programs, fellowships, and project-based collaborations. The importance of strong fundamentals, practical skills, and continuous learning was emphasized.
5. Key Takeaways for AI & Data Science Students
- Exposure to national-level scientific research and infrastructure.
- Understanding the integration of AI and Data Science with physical sciences and metrology.
- Inspiration to pursue higher studies, research, and innovation-driven careers.
- Awareness of the importance of precision, standards, and data accuracy in technology and industry.
- Motivation to contribute to interdisciplinary and socially relevant research projects.
6. Conclusion
The industrial visit to CSIR–National Physical Laboratory on its Foundation Day was a highly enriching and informative experience for the students of the Department of Artificial Intelligence & Data Science. The visit successfully bridged the gap between theoretical learning and real-world scientific applications, motivating students to explore research-driven and interdisciplinary career paths.
