VC emphasised importance of AI, stating: “Science and success are meaningless without values”.
The School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science at Shoolini University, in association with the Zoological Society of India (ZSI) and the Indian Science Congress Association Chandigarh Chapter, organised a two-day International Conference from February 22. Titled ‘Technological Advancements for Sustainable Development towards Biodiversity Conservation (ICTSBC 2024)’, the conference highlighted the progress made in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Former Vice Chancellor of Panjab University Prof RC Sobti inaugurated the conference along with Shoolini University Chancellor Prof PK Khosla, Pro Chancellor Vishal Anand, Director Planning Prof JM Julka, Registrar Prof Sunil Puri, and other dignitaries. In his inaugural address, Prof Sobti emphasised the critical need for biodiversity conservation and sustainability.
Chief guest Prof Dheer Singh, Director of ICAR-NDRI at Karnal shared his thoughts on Cross-kingdom Communication and Epigenetics, followed by the unveiling of the program book/Souvenir.
Speaking to the audience, Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla emphasised the importance of Artificial Intelligence and delivered a compelling message, stating: “Science and success are meaningless without values”. Prof BN Pandey, President of the Zoological Society of India (ZSI), addressed the gathering, explaining the critical role of biodiversity conservation in ensuring food, health, and energy security. Prof V Laxmi Saxena, Former President of the Science Congress Association, highlighted the impact of innovation and technology on biodiversity conservation. Prof PK Khosla shared the conference's objectives, underscoring the importance of quality research, the interconnection of science, spiritualism, and yoga.
Next, it was time for the award ceremony. Prof PK Khosla and Prof RC Sobti got the Lifetime Achievement Award. Prof Kamal Jaiswal, General Secretary of the Zoological Society of India (ZSI), presented the awards. Prof Sobti announced the names of honorary members Dheer Singh, Prof BN Pandey, Prof Ashok Saxena, Prof JS Bansal, Prof V Laxmi, Kamal Jaswal, V Vasudev, IK Pai, Fayaz Ahmed, and MC Sidhu of the Himalayan Forum for Science and Technology.
In the plenary sessions, Dheer Singh presented his groundbreaking research on Moo-vesomes and the potential of milk exosomes in drug delivery and diagnostics. Anand N Singh from Panjab University highlighted the importance and significance of biodiversity and its imperative conservation.
Participants from various universities across India presented their research, starting a multidisciplinary dialogue on sustainability and conservation. The day concluded with a cultural extravaganza, featuring performances by Shoolini University students, celebrating the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.