After independence when efforts were made to give Hindi its due place, the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research took a far sighted decision to provide a vehicle for communication of science to the masses in Hindi. Thus, in 1952 the publication of popular science magazine Vigyan Pragati was started originally, envisaged as a newsletter disseminating information on scientific research carried out in the CSIR institutes, it was converted subsequently into a popular science magazine to inculcate scientific temper among the common people, helping them to ward off superstitions. Since then, in consonance with its title Vigyan Pragati, it is continuously making people aware of the progress science is making. The magazine published its 500th issue in January 1996. Indeed 50 years of publication, in 2001, marks an important milestone for science journalism in Hindi.

With its theme as “Science for common man”, it presents objectively the contributions of Indian S&T in different fields of human welfare as well as their impact on society. Some of those who gave this magazine their valuable support include Shri Shiv Raj Patil, ex-Speaker Indian Parliament; Dr. S.Z. Quasim, ex-Member (Science) Planning Commission; Dr. R.A. Mashelkar, DG, CSIR; Dr A Rehman, former Director, NISTADS; Prof. Yash Pal, Dr. N. Vithal and famous sociologist (late) Prof. S.C. Dube.

Vigyan Pragati publishes special numbers on various topical issues and an annual science quiz is also organized. How popular this magazine is, can easily be gauged by its circulation which stands today highest amongst all Indian popular science magazines. More than 10 to 11 lakh readers of this magazine are located in far flung areas of the country and a few across the boundaries of India.