USTM Hosts National Conference on Emerging Trends in Seedless Vascular Plants and Multidisciplinary Research
Padma Shri Prof. Pramod Tandon honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award; Prof. G.D. Sharma honoured with Birbal Savitri Sahni Medal
9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri-Bhoi, November 10, 2025: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) successfully hosted a three-day National Conference on “Emerging Trends in Seedless Vascular Plants and Multidisciplinary Research: An Approach to Biodiversity Conservation, Bioeconomy and Climate Resilience”, bringing together leading scientists, researchers, academicians, and students from across India. The event aimed to promote interdisciplinary dialogue, address contemporary challenges in plant sciences, and advance sustainable approaches to biodiversity conservation and climate resilience, with a special focus on Pteridophyte biology.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by several eminent personalities, including Chief Guest Dr. Kanad Das, Director, Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata; Hon’ble Chancellor Shri Mahbubul Hoque; Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. G. D. Sharma; Padma Shri Prof. Pramod Tandon, Former Vice Chancellor, NEHU; Prof. Khullar, Secretary, Indian Fern Society (IFS); Prof. Kholia, President, IFS; and Prof. Shyam C. Srivastava from the Birbal Savitri Sahni Foundation.
The ceremony began with a traditional lamp lighting followed by welcome addresses by Dr Amilia Nongbet, Convenor and Head of Department, and Dr Moutushi Das, Organising Secretary, who outlined the objectives of the conference. On this occasion, Padma Shri Prof. Pramod Tandon was felicitated with the Lifetime Achievement Award by USTM, while Prof. G.D. Sharma was honoured with the Birbal Savitri Sahni Medal for his exemplary contributions to botany. An abstract book compiling all research papers was also released by the dignitaries.
Over 65 presenters participated during the three-day event, which featured three plenary sessions, six technical sessions (including an online session), a poster presentation, and an exhibition-cum-sale competition. The conference was structured around five major themes:
- Plant bioresources and sustainable utilisation
- Advanced monitoring systems, forest ecology and climate resilience
- Plants in promoting healthcare
- Microbes in healthcare and environmental sustainability
- Advanced plant biology and sustainable development
Distinguished plenary speakers such as Prof. H.K. Goswami, Prof. S.K. Barik, Prof. Khullar, Prof. Kholia, and Dr. A. Benniamin delivered thought-provoking presentations on current research trends and innovations in Pteridophyte studies. Prof. Khullar was also conferred with the D.D. Pant Memorial Gold Medal by the Society of Bionaturalists for his outstanding research contributions.
The conference also featured an exhibition-cum-sale highlighting the region’s floral diversity, traditional crafts, and ethnic foods prepared by USTM students, as well as a cultural programme showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India.
The valedictory session was graced by Dr. Sambarendra Hazarika, Director, ICAR-NEH Region, as Chief Guest. Awards were presented by the Indian Fern Society to distinguished members, including:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. B.L. Yadav
- Fellow of the Fern Society: Dr. M.K. Adak & Dr. Shakil Sheikh
- Gold Medal: Dr. Sandeep Behera
- Certificate of Merit: Dr. Shaiesh Morajkar
- Honorary Member: Dr. Moutushi Das
- Lifetime Membership: Dr. Amilia Nongbet
USTM also recognized participants through several competition categories:
- Young Scientist Award: Dr. Shaiesh Morajkar
- Best Oral Presentations: Barnali Das, Shivani Vadhiya, Alka Shukla, Pranjana Niyogi, Fullmerries Puwein
- Best Poster Presentation: Sanchitha Saha
- Best Online Presentation: Himadri Nath
- Best Exhibition Stall: Alda Bynhangiazi and Team
The conference was supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and the North Eastern Council (NEC) under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). The DST plays a pivotal role in promoting scientific research and innovation across India, while the NEC under MDoNER works towards accelerating the economic and sustainable development of the North Eastern states through science, technology, and capacity-building initiatives.
The event reflected USTM’s ongoing commitment to promoting research excellence, environmental sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration. It not only strengthened academic networks but also inspired new perspectives in biodiversity conservation and bioeconomic development.