Awantipora, September 29: The three-day Jammu and Kashmir Science Congress 2026 began at the main campus of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, on Tuesday, bringing together scientists, academicians, researchers, innovators, policymakers, industry representatives and students to deliberate on emerging technologies and their applications to challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir.
Organised by IUST in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC), Department of Science and Technology, J&K Government, the Congress is being held under the theme, “Science, Innovations and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable and Viksit J&K.”
Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council, was the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony. IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Romshoo, who is also the chief patron of the event, presided over the proceedings.
Former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Prof. Vinod Kumar Gaur, Central University of Kashmir Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath and Cluster University of Srinagar Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammad Mubeen participated as guests of honour.
The scientific programme comprises 26 technical sessions and five plenary sessions, besides invited talks and interactive discussions. The sessions will cover artificial intelligence, quantum science, nanotechnology, biotechnology, healthcare, sustainable energy, climate and environmental sciences, water and biodiversity, disaster resilience, innovation and entrepreneurship, and smart engineering systems.
Special sessions will examine applications of science and technology in sectors including food processing and tourism. A School Students’ Science Programme, including a segment in collaboration with the National Children’s Science Congress, will also be held to encourage scientific curiosity and innovation among young learners.
Addressing the inaugural session, Prof. Dinesh Singh stressed the need to strengthen scientific research and innovation in Jammu and Kashmir and ensure that advances in science and technology translate into practical solutions for society.
He called for closer collaboration among universities, research institutions, industry and government agencies to convert research outcomes into technologies and solutions relevant to local needs. He also emphasised the importance of developing scientific temperament among students and young researchers and exposing them to emerging areas of science and technology.
Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Romshoo said the Science Congress provides a platform for stakeholders from the scientific and technological ecosystem to exchange ideas and explore collaborative opportunities.
He highlighted the potential of Jammu and Kashmir in areas including sustainable energy, biodiversity, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, water management and disaster resilience, and stressed the need to align scientific research with local developmental and environmental challenges.
Romshoo also emphasised interdisciplinary research and greater engagement between academia, industry, policymakers and the wider community, saying that complex challenges require collaborative approaches.
He said the participation of students and young researchers would provide them exposure to new ideas, technologies and research opportunities, while helping strengthen the region’s scientific and innovation ecosystem.
Other experts and participants at the inaugural session also emphasised the need for stronger institutional collaboration to promote innovation and ensure that scientific advancements translate into practical benefits for society.
The Congress will also feature cultural and outreach activities aimed at facilitating interaction among academia, industry, policymakers, students and the wider community.
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