TNR News Network
Palampur
The two-day national symposium on “Sustainable Development and Conservation of Himalayan Bioresources through a Multidisciplinary Approach,” organized by CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), concluded today in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. The event, held in commemoration of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birth anniversary, witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 delegates across the country.
Student-Driven Initiative with National Impact
Inaugurating the symposium, CSIR-IHBT Director Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav welcomed attendees and highlighted the institute’s ongoing efforts in conservation, value addition, and bioprospection to boost the bio-economy. The event served as a platform for students, researchers, and industry experts to exchange ideas and showcase innovations.
Expert Insights Across Four Sessions
The symposium featured four thematic sessions:
- Session 1: Dr. CP Kala (IIFM, Bhopal) delivered a lead lecture on alpine meadows and the ecological impact of grazing.
- Session 2: Dr. VK Purohit (HAPPRC, Uttarakhand) spoke on high-altitude medicinal plants, while Mr. Lalit Avhad (Rise N Shine Biotech, Maharashtra) discussed biotechnological applications in plant sciences.
- Session 3: Dr. PK Verma (JNU, New Delhi) explored molecular biology for plant conservation, and Dr. Mohar Singh (NBPGR, Shimla) emphasized the role of genetic resources in future development.
- Session 4: Dr. PS Panesar (SLIET, Punjab) addressed food research advancements, and Dr. S. Jachak (NIPER, Punjab) joined online to speak on phytopharmaceuticals and natural products.
Technology Transfer and Student Engagement
The symposium saw 15 oral and 57 poster presentations by students, reflecting vibrant academic engagement. CSIR-IHBT also signed two technology transfer agreements—one with Tashvika India Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, and another with Mahalaxmi Malt Products Pvt. Ltd., Haryana—focused on value-added food products.
An exhibition showcasing products developed through transferred technologies was organized alongside the event. Winners of various competitions, including photography, videography, poster-making, and meme creation, were felicitated during the closing ceremony.
Collaborative Vision for the Himalayas
Experts like Dr. Rakesh Sehgal (NIT Hamirpur) and Dr. PK Joshi (JNU) underscored the importance of collaborative, future-focused research and the use of sensor-based technologies for resource mapping and analysis.
The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment to sustainable development and conservation of the Himalayan region through interdisciplinary collaboration.
