Awantipora: The three-day J&K Science Congress 2026, themed “Science, Innovations and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable and Viksit J&K,” concluded at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) on Thursday with participation from scientists, researchers, academicians, innovators and students.
Addressing the valedictory session at the university’s Nund Reshi Auditorium, School and Higher Education Minister Sakina Itoo said the future of Jammu and Kashmir would be shaped not only by infrastructure but by the knowledge generated and the empowerment of young minds. She stressed the need to prepare youth to become job creators rather than job seekers and called for ensuring opportunities are available across all regions.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, who attended as guest of honour, lauded IUST and the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC) for providing a platform for scientific exchange and innovation.
IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo said the congress had brought together leading minds to deliberate on climate change, disaster vulnerability, sustainability and emerging technologies. He said the enthusiasm shown by students and researchers reflected the potential of science and innovation to drive a sustainable and developed Jammu and Kashmir.
Prof. Romshoo noted that discussions ranged from climate challenges in the Upper Indus Basin to innovations showcased by school students, underscoring the need for science to serve society and sustainable development.
Dean Research, IUST, Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, presented a report on the congress, stating that around 700 researchers and nearly 4,000 participants took part in the event. The congress featured 26 technical sessions across 14 themes, five plenary lectures and two panel discussions.
The concluding ceremony also included felicitation of the best oral and poster presenters. Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Ajaz Bashir delivered the welcome address, while Dean Outreach Dr. Ruheela Hassan proposed the vote of thanks.
Earlier in the day, Prof. Romshoo delivered a plenary lecture on climate change, cryosphere depletion and emerging glacial hazards in the Upper Indus Basin and their implications for water security and infrastructure. The session was chaired by former Ministry of Earth Sciences Secretary Prof. Vinod Kumar Gaur.
A dedicated School Students’ Science Programme, organised in collaboration with the National Children’s Science Congress, also formed part of the event, with over 80 students from 20 schools participating through poster, model and project presentations.
