JAMMU, Aug 14: The School of Biotechnology (SBT), University of Jammu, in collaboration with the J&K Science, Technology & Innovation Council (JKST&IC), organised a one-day conference on “Biotechnology for Societal Development, Startups, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Skills” at the University of Jammu.
The conference aimed to acquaint students, researchers and aspiring entrepreneurs with emerging opportunities in biotechnology, with particular emphasis on innovation, startup development, entrepreneurship and the translation of scientific research into practical solutions for societal development.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Madhulika Bhagat, Director, School of Biotechnology, University of Jammu. The event was funded by JKST&IC, with Shruti Khanna, Deputy Director, JKST&IC and Co-convenor, gracing the occasion. Dr. Yash Pal Khajuria, Organising Secretary, SBT, presented an overview of the conference, while Ishita Choudhary, Accounts Officer, JKST&IC, also attended the programme.
The Chief Guest, Prof. J. P. Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Jammu, highlighted the important role of scientific disciplines such as agriculture, biotechnology, plant genetics, microbiology and biochemistry in promoting social and community development.
Prof. Joorel emphasised the efforts of researchers across disciplines towards conserving existing crop varieties and developing improved varieties for the benefit of society. He stressed that scientific advancement should focus not only on improving health, productivity and quality of life but also on ensuring environmental sustainability.
He underlined the need for sustainable agricultural practices and innovative technologies to enhance farm productivity and improve the economic well-being of farmers. He also emphasised that interdisciplinary research and collaboration were essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive development.
The technical session commenced with an invited talk by Mr. Vikrant Dogra, Chairman, Unati Agri Allied and Marketing Multistate Cooperative Society Limited (UAMMCL). He emphasised the importance of translating scientific research into practical applications for societal welfare.
Dogra highlighted the potential of introducing Chilli Thorm (Therma), a traditional crop of Ladakh, in Jammu and Kashmir and stressed the role biotechnologists can play in its propagation through modern techniques.
Sharing his experience with the Unnati programme, he described its journey from initial challenges to becoming a multi-state initiative covering 10 states, with a focus on mass livelihood generation. He encouraged students to consider entrepreneurship and startups as viable career pathways and urged them to transform scientific knowledge and innovations into socially beneficial ventures.