By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 18 Sep: Sardar Bhagwan Singh University successfully organised the “International Conference on Microbial Innovations for Synergistic Advancement (MISA-2024)” on 17-18 September. The event coincided with International Microorganisms Day, celebrated globally on 17 September, which highlights the vital role microorganisms play in sustaining life on Earth.
The conference attracted leading experts, researchers, and scholars to discuss recent advancements in microbial technologies. The keynote speaker, Prof Oscar Santamaria from the University of Valladolid, Spain, shared groundbreaking insights into mycopriming, a technique that enhances seed germination and improves plant resilience against environmental stressors.
National keynote speakers, including Prof Neeraj Dilbagi (Guru Jambeshwar University), Prof Reeta Goel (formerly of GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology), and Dr Shrivardhan Dheeman (MVN University), contributed their expertise on key topics such as nanotechnology, sustainable agriculture, and e-waste management.
In his inaugural address, Vice-Chancellor Prof (Dr) Kumar emphasised that the role of microbes in promoting sustainability extends beyond scientific inquiry—it demands urgent action. He urged attendees to reimagine humanity’s relationship with the microbial world, emphasising that researchers and academics are uniquely positioned to drive this paradigm shift for the betterment of the planet.
The conference, held in a hybrid format to accommodate both in-person and virtual participants, saw enthusiastic participation, with over 170 submissions from emerging researchers and scholars. After a rigorous peer review process, 56 abstracts were selected for presentation, including 11 oral and 12 poster presentations. Jerin James from Uttaranchal University won the Best Oral Presentation award for his outstanding research and delivery, while Riya and Renu received the Best Poster Prize.
In addition to academic presentations, the conference also raised awareness about food adulteration techniques through live demonstrations by BSc and MSc Microbiology students. These demonstrations highlighted the health risks associated with food adulteration, including food poisoning and allergic reactions.
The inaugural session was graced by Dr Gaurav Deep Singh (President, Sardar Bhagwan Singh University), Dr Deepak Sahni (Registrar), Prof Maneesh Arora (Dean, Student Welfare), Prof Veerma Ram (Director, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology), Dr Nidhi Belwal (Associate Dean & Convenor of the conference) and other faculty members. Their presence ensured that the conference met high academic standards and provided an intellectually stimulating environment for all participants.
