2 day National Conference on “Innovations in Chemical, Material Sciences for Sustainable Development” concludes

SRINAGAR:  The two day national conference on “Innovations in Chemical and Material Sciences for Sustainable Development”, organized by the Chemistry Department, Islamia College of Science and Commerce”, concluded here today. During the conference, young minds and emerging researchers from various academic and research institutions from across the country presented their findings and viewpoints. It served as a vibrant forum for knowledge exchange and intellectual deliberations, with the participation of eminent scientists, researchers, academicians and young scholars from across the country.

The sessions served as a vibrant platform for these budding scholars to present their innovative works across a diverse range of topics-spanning environmental remediation, green chemistry and sustainable technological interventions. The validation ceremony was presided over by Professor Sharifudin Peerzada, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Kashmir while Dr. Majid Zaman Baba was the guest of honour. T

The dignitaries highlighted the importance of research for material innovations, green technologies and interdisciplinary studies for sustainable development and a safe future. The keynote address was delivered by Professor Javed N Agrewala from IIT Ropar, who presented a compelling and thought-provoking overview of scientific innovations aimed at achieving a sustainable future. He highlighted the urgent need for interdisciplinary research and technological solutions that align with the principles of sustainability.

Earlier, the conference was inaugurated by Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Higher Education. Shantmanu highlighted the need to include sustainability in all areas of higher education. He stressed that students must be prepared to face global challenges and called for education that encourages real-world solutions.

The inaugural session concluded with the release of Conference Souvenir and College Newsletter followed by vote of thanks presented by Dr.Taulat Qayoom, Secretary, Staff Council, Islamia College. The conference was spread over four technical sessions involving various themes on sustainability and innovations.

The plenary lecture by Professor Javed N Agrewala from IIT Ropar presented a promising new nano-vaccine approach to address the morphine addiction, a major global challenge. He highlighted the vaccine's potential as a long-term solution to prevent and manage opioid abuse. Professor Farukh Arjm from Department of Chemistry Aligarh Muslim University deliberated on bioinorganic Chemistry and metallodrugs in therapeutics against various cancer cell lines.

Professor Mohammad Ishaq Geer, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, delivered an engaging lecture highlighting the critical role of innovations in driving sustainability across sectors, projecting the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in the near future.

Dr Mahipal Yadav from Department of Chemistry, Delhi University, explored the origins of life by focusing on how early Earth Chemistry might have supported the metabolic reactions without enzymes or metals. Professor Ramendra Pratap, from the University of Delhi, presented his research on Cyanomethyl Arenes-a group of chemical compounds with potential to build new materials useful in electronics and pharmaceuticals.

Professor Farooq Ahmad Lone, from SKUAST Kashmir, discussed the sustainable strategies for environmental conservation and food security. Professor Aijaz Ahmad, Head, Department of Chemistry, University of Kashmir, discussed a visionary paradigm that advocates reimagining the design of molecules, materials and systems by emulating nature’s time-honored and efficient strategies. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Abid Hussain Banday, Department of Chemistry.

Principal of the College, Professor Tehmina Yousuf, set the intellectual and ceremonial tone for the day’s academic engagement.

The conference report was presented by Dr. Nighat Nazir from the Department of Chemistry, Islamia College.