Katra: The 8th National Geo-Research Scholars Meet, organized jointly by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) and the Schools of Civil Engineering, Physics, and Architecture from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), commenced today at the SMVDU campus in Katra. The event, which will conclude on November 25, 2024, features a series of technical sessions and fieldwork activities led by distinguished scholars from various specialized fields. Over 70 research scholars from premier institutions and universities across India are participating, along with local participants from SMVDU.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by prominent figures in the field of geoscience, with Prof. S. K. Tandon, Former Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Delhi, serving as the chief guest. Other dignitaries included Prof. Talat Ahmad, Chairman of the Board of Governors of WIHG and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir and Jamia Millia Islamia, Prof. M. G. Thakkar, Director of the Birbal Sahani Institute of Palaeobotany and Acting Director of WIHG, and Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice Chancellor of SMVDU, who presided over the event.
In her inaugural address, Prof. Pragati Kumar urged the participants to avoid working in isolation and emphasized the importance of collaborative research to address major scientific challenges. She assured that SMVDU is committed to providing an environment conducive to research and offered its full support for collaborative projects. Prof. Thakkar congratulated SMVDU for hosting the event and encouraged attendees to focus on identifying interdisciplinary research problems. Prof. Talat Ahmad shared fond memories of his association with SMVDU and praised the university as a premier institution, urging participants to make the most of both the technical and field components of the event.
Prof. S. K. Tandon discussed the significant advances in geoscience research over the past few decades, highlighting how the integration of new technologies and techniques has enriched the field.
The event’s scientific program was introduced by Prof. J. Parumal, Conference Director, while Dr. S. K. Wanchoo, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees and participants for their contributions to this prestigious national-level event.
