Two days Hands-on Training-cum-Workshop on Cyanobacteria inaugurated at JU

Jammu, August 22: A hands-on training cum workshop on “Cyanobacteria: Culture Techniques and Applications” was inaugurated today in the Department of Botany, University of Jammu, under the aegis of the Botanical Club.

The workshop was inaugurated by Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies, Chief Guest of the occasion. In her inaugural address, Dr. Rohmetra highlighted the importance of these kind of trainings and workshops in shaping the future of research for larger societal benefits and capacity building. She emphasized that training in techniques is crucial for implementation of meaningful research for sustainability and creating an environment of skill development and enhancement in the Institute. She further elaborated upon the role of teachers and researchers in making India a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

Aligned with this vision and mandate of NEP-2020, the Department of Botany has taken this important initiative towards capacity building and enhance skill among different stake holders as Cyanobacteria hold immense significance due to their diverse utility, ranging from nutrient enrichment and biofuel production to serving as indicators of climate change.

Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, Dean faculty of Life Sciences introduced the resource person of the workshop Dr. O. N. Tiwari, an Internationally renowned expert working as Principal Scientist Microbiology Division, ICAR-Indian Institute of Agricultural Research and highlighted his major contributions towards cyanobacterial research in India.

He also talked about importance of cyanobacteria in biofertilizers and biotechnology. He stressed that capacity building through such workshops is vital for developing scientific skills among young researchers.

Earlier, Prof. Susheel Verma, Head, Department of Botany and Convener of the workshop, formally welcomed the dignitaries and participants. He underlined the significance of the workshop in the present context of environmental sustainability and highlighted the growing interest in cyanobacteria as a sustainable solution to agricultural and environmental challenges.

Participants from various institutions including University of Jammu, Central University of Jammu, Cluster University of Jammu, and other affiliated colleges joined the programme. The workshop includes interactive lectures and practical sessions by Dr. O. N. Tiwari.

Over the course of the training, participants will receive rigorous hands-on experience in isolation, culturing, maintenance, and application of cyanobacteria for diverse purposes.

Among others present on the occasion were Prof. Namrata Sharma, Prof. Veenu Kaul, Dr. Sikander, Dr. Geeta, Dr. H. C. Dutt, Dr. Skarma Nonzom, Dr. Abhishek and Dr. Komal who extended their best wishes for the success of the event.

Puranamrita conducted the proceedings of the inaugural session and Dr. Romica Verma proposed the vote of thanks.

The workshop is expected to provide a comprehensive platform for young scholars and faculty members to gain practical knowledge and explore the vast potential of cyanobacteria in agriculture, industry, and environment management.