International Conference on "Harnessing the Power of Microbes for Viksit Bharat" at Department of Microbiology Panjab University Chandigarh

Chandigarh, March 20, 2025: The Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, organised a two-day International Conference on "Harnessing the Power of Microbes for Viksit Bharat".

The international conference was held to deliberate on the various aspects of microbiology and how its applications can be translated to the general public to contribute to India's development as a developed nation.

The conference was formally inaugurated by esteemed dignitaries, including Prof. R.C. Kuhad, Chairman of the Indian Academy of Microbiological Sciences, Former Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Haryana, and Former Member of UGC, who graced the event as the Chief Guest.

Other distinguished guests included Prof. Yojna Rawat, Director of the Research and Development Cell, Panjab University, and Padma Shri Prof. R.C. Sobti, who were the Guests of Honour. Sh. Navneet Kumar Srivastava (IFS), Deputy Conservator of Forest and Director, DST-UT, also sent his message for the event. In their lectures, the dignitaries emphasised the crucial role of microbial research in shaping India's future, fostering biotechnological innovations, and driving sustainable economic growth.
In the valedictory function, Prof. Y.P. Verma, Registrar of Panjab University, Prof. Ganga Ram Chaudhary, Coordinator RUSA 2.0, and Dr. Ajay Sharma, Principal of GGDSD College, appreciated the Department of Microbiology for conducting such acdemic programs and highlighted the role of Panjab University and its affiliated colleges in accomplishing the vision of Viksit Bharat.

The conference brought together leading scientists, academicians, industry experts and students to discuss the pivotal role of microbes in advancing scientific research, technological applications, and national self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat). The conference featured more than 30 invited talks by eminent scientists and experts from prestigious institutions worldwide.
With an impressive participation of over 400 delegates the event provided a dynamic platform for intellectual exchange, innovation, and networking. The sessions covered a wide array of topics, including microbial biotechnology, industrial microbiology, environmental sustainability, food and pharmaceutical microbiology, and microbial interventions for agriculture and health.

A panel discussion on "Existing Trends and the Future Roadmap of Microbiology Education and Research" was also held. The enthusiastic participation of students from all categories—research scholars, postgraduates, and undergraduates—in poster and oral presentations highlighted the high level of engagement and curiosity fostered by the event.

Prof. Naveen Gupta, Chairperson of the Department and the Coordinator of the conference, explained that the grand success of the event reaffirmed the Department of Microbiology’s commitment to advancing scientific research, fostering innovation, and contributing to India's vision of a self-reliant, technologically advanced, and sustainable future.