Personality concerned with the systematic collection of scientific data, utilization in research, and establishment of evidence for raising scientific hypotheses is a scientist. It is remarkable to think that some of the greatest scientists, such as Valentina Vladimirovna Tereshkova (Russian engineer, former Soviet-Cosmonaut), David Baltimore, and Gary Bruce Ruvkun (both American Nobel Laureates), were all born in March. Scientists collect outcomes of observations and experiments to raise and test hypotheses, gaining and sharing concepts of nature and life. It is essential to popularize science through the biographies of scientists in Marathi, the classical (Abhijat) language.
Scientists venture into different domains of science, paving the way for a safer human life. The book entitled “Maarch Mahinyatil Vidnyanayaatri” (Biographies of March-Born Scientists) commemorates their contributions through discoveries and inventions. In this book, the author explains how the minds of scientists worked and the mysteries of the universe they discovered. March-born scientists have blessed human life through remarkable scientific findings and have constructed new paths to be followed. Their inventions, innovations, and discoveries have provided new directions for respective domains of science.
Several significant international observances occur in March: International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March, Pi Day on 14 March, World Sparrow Day on 20 March (raising awareness about birds), World Water Day on 22 March (highlighting the importance of fresh water), and World Meteorological Day on 23 March (commemorating the establishment of the WMO). These global events underscore the importance of science in everyday life.
About the Author: After working as a Junior College teacher for three years at Rajendra Vidyalaya and Junior College, Khandala District, Satara, and serving as a Professor of Zoology for thirty-three years at Agricultural Development Trust, Shardabai Pawar Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Shardanagar, Malegaon, Baramati, Dr. Vitthalrao B. Khyade retired on 31 May 2023. His significant contributions to science include the use of Juvenoid Compounds, herbal compounds (Digoxin), Stevia Inulin, terpene compounds (including retinol), and acetone extractives of selected plants for rearing the fifth instar larvae of silkworms for commercial silk production.
Through his research on Black Soldier Fly (BSF), Dr. Khyade has directly contributed to raising anti-aging formulations. The antimicrobial proteins of BSF play a critical role in enhancing immunity and are believed to be involved in cancer treatment. He has received more than thirty prestigious international awards for best research papers and presentations. His credit includes over three hundred published research papers, twenty-eight of which are co-authored with Nobel Laureates. Under his guidance, one research scholar has completed a Ph.D. degree, and two scholars have completed M.Phil. degrees.
Dr. Khyade’s dedication to ADT governance and his groundbreaking work in the popularization of science through “Dr. APIS-Science-Spectrum” earned him a significant citation from the Global Society for Health and Educational Growth and the “Best Scientist” award from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore. He is passionate and curious about research, literature, and writing. To inspire and fascinate readers, he infuses his writings with passion.