Panjab University to Host 17th Chandigarh Science Congress (CHASCON-2024)

Chandigarh, November 5, 2024: Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh is all set to host the 17th Chandigarh Science Congress (CHASCON-2024) at the PU Law Auditorium from November 6 to 8.

The three-day prestigious national conference is being organised on the theme of “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat” and is sponsored by Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD).

CHASCON is being organised by PU in collaboration with ‘Chandigarh Region Innovation and Knowledge Cluster’ (CRIKC) institutions, which includes institutions like PGIMER, PEC, IISER Mohali, IIT Ropar, IMTECH, NIPER Mohali, CSIR-CSIO, INST, ISB, NABI, CIAB, NITTR, TBRL, SASE, GMCH CCET, PSCST, C-DAC.

This prestigious event is expected to be one of the largest scientific gatherings in North India, with active participation from institutions within the Chandigarh Region Innovation and Knowledge Cluster (CRIKC). As many as 1200 eminent scientists, academicians, researchers, and students are expected to exchange ideas, foster collaborations, and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The conference aims to provide a platform for discussing the contributions of research towards creating a self-reliant, Viksit Bharat, focusing particularly on indigenous technologies. It will begin with an inaugural ceremony, followed by keynote addresses from Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, Indian National Science Academy (INSA), and Ms. Shweta Khurana, Senior Director, Asia-Pacific and Japan, Global Government Affairs. Other distinguished speakers include Dr. Vipin Kumar from the National Innovation Foundation (NIF), Prof.Venkatesh Rangarajan from the Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Prof. Ashish Gulia from the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Mohali, and Prof. Sanjay Kumar Bhadada from PGIMER, Chandigarh. Prof. Suresh Gosavi, Vice Chancellor, SPPU, Prof. T.P. Singh from AIIMS etc.

The conference will feature two major attractions: EXPO-CHASCON and the CRIKC- Shodh Samwad Competition.
•    EXPO-CHASCON-2024 will showcase innovations, patents, skill enhancement courses under NEP-2020, and startups from Panjab University, its affiliated colleges, and CRIKC institutes. The expo will also highlight exhibits on Indigenous Technologies, providing a unique opportunity for delegates and the public to interact with scientists, researchers, and innovators.
•    The Shodh Samwad Competition will provide a platform for young scientists and researchers to present their work through "science stories". The top 5 entries will be selected to present their research at the University Auditorium and their work will be publicised on PU radio station, Jyotirgamya 91.2, offering young minds a chance to share their vision for a Viksit Bharat.

On the second day, the conference will host multiple technical sessions across various scientific disciplines, including Basic Medical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Dental Sciences, Engineering and Management Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Physical Sciences. The sessions will feature plenary lectures, panel discussions, oral presentations, and poster sessions, offering a comprehensive exchange of ideas.The conference will conclude with a prize distribution ceremony and the valedictory function, marking the successful culmination of this significant event.

Through CHASCON-2024, Panjab University seeks to strengthen the bonds between industry, academia, and policymakers, while encouraging young researchers to engage in meaningful scientific inquiry and foster a scientific temperament essential for the progress of Viksit Bharat.