Guwahati, Nov 10: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) successfully organised a three-day National Conference on “Emerging Trends in Seedless Vascular Plants and Multidisciplinary Research: An Approach to Biodiversity Conservation, Bioeconomy and Climate Resilience.”
The event brought together eminent scientists, academicians, and students from across India to promote interdisciplinary dialogue and address contemporary challenges in plant sciences, with a special focus on Pteridophyte biology, according to a Press release
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Dr Kanad Das, Director, Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata; USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque; Vice Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma; Padma Shri Prof. Pramod Tandon, Former Vice Chancellor, NEHU; Prof. Khullar, Secretary, Indian Fern Society (IFS); Prof. Kholia, President, IFS; and Prof. Shyam C. Srivastava from the Birbal Savitri Sahni Foundation. The ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and welcome addresses by Dr Amilia Nongbet, Convenor and Head of Department, and Dr Moutushi Das, Organising Secretary.
On this occasion, Padma Shri Prof. Pramod Tandon was felicitated with the Lifetime Achievement Award by USTM, while Prof. G.D. Sharma received the Birbal Savitri Sahni Medal for his outstanding contributions to botany.
Sixty-five presenters participated in the conference, which featured plenary sessions, technical sessions, poster presentations, and an exhibition-cum-sale showcasing regional flora, traditional crafts, and ethnic cuisine.
The valedictory session was attended by Dr. Sambarendra Hazarika, Director, ICAR-NEH Region, as Chief Guest. Several distinguished members of the Indian Fern Society were also honoured for their significant contributions to plant sciences.
The conference was supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and the North Eastern Council (NEC) under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). The DST plays a pivotal role in promoting scientific research and innovation across India, while the NEC under MDoNER works towards accelerating the economic and sustainable development of the North Eastern states through science, technology, and capacity-building initiatives.
The conference reaffirmed USTM’s commitment to research excellence, environmental sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration, inspiring new directions in biodiversity conservation and bioeconomic development.
