International Conference at Shivprasad Sadanand Jaiswal College Advocates Technology for Indigenous Empowerment
Shivprasad Sadanand Jaiswal College in Maharashtra, India, recently hosted a landmark two-day international conference titled “Exploring the Frontiers: Interdisciplinary Advances in Biological and Material Sciences” (ICEFIABAMS-2026) on February 3-4, 2026. Jointly organized by the college’s Botany Department, the Indian Indigenous Society for Sciences and Social Sciences (IISSS, New Delhi), the Society for Bioinformatics and Biological Sciences (SBBS, Prayagraj), and the Postgraduate Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU), the event exemplified a concerted effort to integrate cutting-edge technology with the empowerment of indigenous communities. Attracting over 700 registered participants from across the globe, including researchers, students, and policymakers, the hybrid-format conference underscored the ethical imperative of tailoring scientific innovation to preserve cultural heritage and address socio-ecological challenges.
The proceedings commenced virtually on February 3, inaugurated by Professor Sába Vágvölgyi from the Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology at the University of Szeged, Hungary. In his keynote address, Professor Vágvölgyi articulated a visionary paradigm: “Biotechnology holds immense promise for indigenous communities; consider microbial solutions for sustainable agriculture that preserve traditional farming knowledge while boosting yields in resource-scarce lands.” This theme resonated deeply, framing technology not as a disruptive force but as a symbiotic enhancer of indigenous practices. Principal and convener Dr. Ishwar Mohurley delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the conference’s role in fostering global dialogue amid pressing issues like climate resilience and biodiversity loss. Shri Lunkaran Chitlange, president of Shri Durga Shikshan Sanstha, extended congratulations and urged active participation. Dignitaries on the dais included Shri Mukesh Jaiswal (Secretary), Sau Mama Jaiswal, Shri Manish Jaiswal, and Organizing Secretary Prof. Laxmikant Borkar. The day featured 130 oral presentations, spanning diverse domains from molecular genetics to bioinformatics, presented by scholars from varied institutions.
The second day, held in person on February 4, was inaugurated by Prof. Yuxin Miao, Director from the United States, who delivered an online keynote asserting, “Genetic engineering must prioritize indigenous biodiversity; customizing tools for local crops ensures technology empowers rather than displaces traditional practices.” Dr. Dilfuza Jabborova from Uzbekistan’s Institute of Genetics and Plant Experimental Biology reinforced this, noting, “Plant genetics research should serve indigenous resilience; by integrating local varieties with modern tech, we can combat climate change while honoring cultural heritage.” Professor Saeed Radhib Hassan from the Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Chennai (affiliated with IIT Madras), illuminated computational models tailored for indigenous applications, including speech processing. Professor Ashok Alur, Vice-Chancellor of Kodagu University, Karnataka, expressed gratitude to the organizers and advocated for technology-driven welfare in indigenous contexts, concluding, “True progress lies in tech that uplifts indigenous voices; let’s model sustainable development after their symbiotic relationship with nature.” Dr. Manali Kshirsagar, Vice-Chancellor of RTMNU, Nagpur, sent her message and wished for the smooth execution of the conference.
Renowned lyricist K. Sagar (JNU, Delhi), a botanist-turned-Bollywood figure, shared his interdisciplinary journey, bridging arts and sciences. Other luminaries included Prof. Gogle, convener (National President, IISSS, and Head of MBGE at RTMNU PGTD Nagpur), Prof. Pramod Ramteke (President, SBBS), and various IISSS office-bearers such as Dr. Subhash Somkuwar (General Secretary), Dr. Aswajeet Fulzele (Secretary, Academic), and Dr. Mohammad Rizwan (Secretary, Research & Publication). The event received 180 original, unpublished research papers from India and abroad, culminating in robust deliberations. Prizes were distributed to the winners of poster presentations, oral presenters, and research ideas.
Dr. Yatreek Bhagat compared both inaugurations, with Dr. Kailash Lokhande and Mr. Ankit Nakade proposing votes of thanks. Faculty including Dr. Vilayatkar, Dr. Chaudhari, Dr. Shyamkuwar, Dr. Kapgate, Mr. Dhuratkar, Dr. Bangadkar, Dr. Deshmukh, Dr. Kawle, Mr. Ukey, Dr. Madavi, and other contractual teachers ensured seamless execution. Over 400 participants were present in an offline mode. ICEFIABAMS-2026 not only advanced interdisciplinary scholarship but also championed an inclusive techno-humanistic ethos, positioning Shivprasad Sadanand Jaiswal College as a vanguard in global academic discourse.