Manipal, December 11, 2024: The International Conference on Plant Biotechnology for Sustainable Productivity and Environment (ICPBSPE) conducted by the Department of Plant Sciences, Manipal School of Life Sciences (MSLS), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), was inaugurated today by Prof. Sharath Kumar Rao, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences) of MAHE, alongside Prof. Yu-Chung Chiang, Distinguished Professor at National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan, as the Guest of Honor, in the presence of Dr. B.S. Satish Rao, Director, MSLS, and Dr. A. Muthusamy, the Convener of the conference. With over 130 participants from across India and international speakers from Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, the UK, and Sri Lanka, the event promises to be a landmark in advancing plant biotechnological innovations.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Rao highlighted the importance of scientific research and innovation for the sustainability of biodiversity and agricultural production, segueing with ‘One Health’ goals. The conference further highlights MAHE’s commitment to innovation, with the year 2025 being designated as the Year of Excellence in Industry-Academia Collaboration, furthering partnerships between research and industrial sectors. This conference is a prelude to the groundbreaking advancements envisioned next year.
Organized around five themes, including plant biodiversity, conservation, genetics, stress interactions, and eco-friendly practices, the conference highlights the critical role of plant sciences in addressing food security and environmental challenges. Eminent speakers from academia and industry will discuss cutting-edge research and collaborative opportunities to bridge global agricultural gaps. This international gathering marks a significant step toward sustainable productivity and greener practices, reinforcing MAHE’s leadership in transformative education and research and is generously sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology-Government of India, HiMedia and SVR AgroImpex underscoring the growing synergy between academia and industry.