By: Bilal Dar
Sopore: A two-day National Conference on “Frontiers in Basic Sciences: Advancing Climate Resilience, Drug Discovery and Epigenetic Medicine” began today at the Government Degree College Sopore under the patronage of Principal Prof. Subeena Chilloo.
The conference brought together researchers, scientists, academicians, and students from across India to deliberate on the intersection of climate science, biomedical research, and epigenetics.
The inaugural session was graced by Irshad Rasool Kar, MLA Sopore, as the Chief Guest, along with ADC Sopore Shabir Ahmad Raina, SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib, Principal Amar Singh College Prof. Aijaz Hakak, and Prof. Maryam Sarwat from Amity University Noida as guests of honour. The session was moderated by Prof. Zubair Syed Masoodi, Head, Department of Computer Applications.
The event began with the National Anthem, followed by the traditional Izbandh ceremony and a rendition of the college tarana by students. A felicitation ceremony was held for the dignitaries before the formal proceedings began.
In her welcome address, Principal Prof. Subeena Chilloo emphasized the importance of academic conferences in fostering research-oriented collaboration and extended appreciation to the Organizing Secretary, Dr. Jaffar Bhat, for his efforts in convening the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Aijaz Hakak highlighted the urgent need for climate resilience and environmental protection, urging that the ethos of “Ann Posh Tel Yel Van Posh”—the sustenance of human life depends on nature—must be practiced in letter and spirit. Prof. Maryam Sarwat lauded the college for its interdisciplinary approach and called for greater collaboration in scientific research.
ADC Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, commended the college for prioritizing climate resilience as a major theme, describing it as “a concern of our times that needs immediate academic and community engagement.” The dignitaries also inaugurated the latest issue of the college newsletter, prepared by Dr. Khalid Bashir and his student team, edited by Prof. Falak Naz.
SSP Sopore praised the initiative for bringing together scientific minds on a common platform to promote research for community welfare. Chief Guest Shri Irshad Rasool Kar expressed satisfaction over the college’s growing academic achievements and assured support for the long-pending demand of completing the auditorium.
On the occasion, several college principals were felicitated, including Prof. Shameem Ahmad (GDC Sopore), Prof. Imtiyaz Ahmad (GDC Dangiwacha), and Prof. Kowsar Jabeen (GDC Kreeri).
Dr. Syed Murtaza Geelani presented the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty, and participants.
The inaugural session concluded with the formal opening of the RFID-based college library. The librarian gave a presentation on the facility, which enables faster and easier access to books. The initiative was widely appreciated by the dignitaries as a step towards modernizing academic infrastructure and improving learning accessibility.
The conference will continue tomorrow with technical sessions and paper presentations on emerging research in climate science, drug development, and epigenetic medicine.
