By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 19 Dec: Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) inaugurated the Women Scientists’ Conclave organised by the Uttarakhand State Council for Science Education and Research (USERC) at the IRDT Auditorium on Thursday. During the event, the Governor felicitated women scientists who have made exceptional contributions to the field of science and science education, thereby appreciating their efforts.
The following scientists were honoured with the “Young Women Scientist Excellence Award-2024”: Dr Pratiksha Joshi, Tanuja Arya, Bahar Anjum, and Dr Deepti Rawat. The “Young Women Scientist Achievement Award-2024” was presented to Dr Meenakshi Rana, Dr Archana Dhyani, Binu Singh, Dr Nirjara Singvi, Dr Manu Pant, Dr Shraddha Bisht, Dr Neetu Pandey, Dr Divya Singh, and Dr Pawanika Choudhary. Additionally, three students, Niharika Negi, Drishti Chauhan, and Shreya Rautela were awarded the “Science Awareness Student Award.”
Lt Gen Singh congratulated the women scientists and students, stating, “Our daughters are excelling in every field. Their achievements are impressive and inspirational. This conclave is a remarkable convergence of technology, women power, and youth power. With the synergy of these three, India is progressing toward becoming a global leader.”
The Governor emphasised that women are making notable contributions in fields such as science, technology, skill development, education, and employment. He encouraged women and youth to actively participate in artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and technological innovations. He praised the event for recognising and motivating women scientists, stating that it would provide fresh inspiration for girls to pursue careers in science and technology.
Lt Gen Singh added that the women of Uttarakhand are significantly contributing to the state’s economy through their skills and hard work. Through self-help groups, women are promoting self-employment and writing a new chapter in economic empowerment. He commended the innovative programmes and environmental scientific activities organised by USERC and stated that the centre plays a pivotal role in empowering the state’s youth and women through science and technology. The Governor also visited the exhibition and interacted with students.
The event was also attended by Vice-Chancellor of Govind Ballabh Pant Agricultural and Technological University, Dr Manmohan Singh Chauhan, and Vice-Chancellor of Uttarakhand Technical University, Prof Omkar Singh, who congratulated the women scientists and described the conclave as a significant initiative to promote women power and innovations in science in Uttarakhand.
USERC Director Prof (Dr) Anita Rawat, welcomed the guests and provided insights into the role of the Young Women Scientists’ Conclave. The event was conducted by scientist Dr Om Prakash Nautiyal. Vice-Chancellors of various universities, principals and teachers from educational institutions, and other distinguished guests took part.
