National Conference on Nurturing Young Minds for Scientific Innovations-2025’

Organized By School of Life Sciences in Collaboration with Himalayan Life Science Society Venue: Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Shahpur Campus NYMSI-2025 aims to engage and share ideas among scientists, engineers, and young researchers, who are actively working in the biological and chemical sciences. Various fascination sessions, from current advances to basic research, will be covered during NYMSI- 2025. Its foundation is the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge regarding recent developments in biological and chemistry sciences. Biologists of all shades will have an unparalleled opportunity to discuss the most recent developments in the field and share their findings with colleagues at NYMSI-2025.

The Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP), Shahpur campus, successfully hosted a two-day National Conference on “Nurturing Young Minds for Scientific Innovation – 2025 (NYMSI-2025)” on 15–16 May 2025. The event was jointly organized by the School of Life Sciences in collaboration with the Himalayan Life Science Society (HLSS). The conference brought together eminent scientists, academicians, and research scholars from across the country to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and explore innovations in science and technology.

Inaugural Ceremony The event began with a traditional welcome, lighting of the lamp, Saraswati Vandana, and the university anthem. Distinguished dignitaries present included: Prof. Sat Prakash Bansal, Vice-Chancellor, CUHP (Chief Guest – virtual address) Prof. Naveen Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, CSKHPKV, Palampur (Guest of Honour) Prof. Sunil Kumar, Dean, School of Life Sciences & Convener Prof. Pradeep Kumar, Dean (Academics), CUHP Prof. B. C. Chauhan, Campus Director, CUHP In his address, Prof. Bansal emphasized the importance of innovation, multidisciplinary research, and translating ideas “from lab to field.” Prof. Naveen Kumar inspired students to set clear life goals, plan strategically, and remain adaptable with alternative approaches.

Academic Sessions

The two-day conference featured expert lectures and interactive sessions across multiple disciplines:

Day 1 Highlights

Climate Change and Biodiversity – Prof. D. R. Thakur (HPU, Shimla) Future of Agriculture: Advanced Technologies & Innovation – Dr. Pankaj Sood (KVK Mandi) Exotic Fish Species and Sustainable Aquaculture – Prof. Y. K. Rawal (Panjab University, Chandigarh)

Day 2 Highlights Cell Culture-Based Disease Models – Dr. Ravinder Kumar (Panjab University) Enzymes for a Sustainable World – Dr. Arun Kumar (CSIR-IHBT, Palampur) Bioinformatics & Computational Thinking for Digital India – Dr. Kumardeep Choudhary (CSIR-IGIB, New Delhi)

Poster & Oral Presentations

Alongside invited talks, the conference hosted a poster exhibition and oral presentation sessions, with 130 posters and 18 oral papers on themes such as: Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Sustainable Livestock Production Nutritional Security and Biodiversity From Atom to Life: The Interconnected World of Science

Valedictory Session

The conference concluded with a formal closing ceremony. Dr. Rakesh Thakur, Organizing Secretary, presented the report of the two-day event. Special guest Shri Rajnish Mahajan (DFO, Dalhousie) shared insights on youth engagement, while Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav (CSIR-IHBT, Palampur) emphasized the role of innovation, startups, and entrepreneurship in nation-building. Outstanding participants in poster and oral categories were awarded prizes and certificates. The event ended with a vote of thanks by Prof. Pradeep Kumar (Dean Academics) and Dr. Manorama Patri (Co-Convener), marking the successful completion of NYMSI-2025.