Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The three-day Jammu and Kashmir Science Congress 2026 was inaugurated on Tuesday at the main campus of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) in Awantipora, bringing together scientists, researchers, academicians and students to deliberate on emerging technologies and sustainable solutions for the region.
The Congress is organised by IUST in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC), Department of Science and Technology, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. It is being held under the theme “Science, Innovations and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable and Viksit J&K.”
Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman of the J&K Higher Education Council, was the Chief Guest at the inaugural ceremony. IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakeel A. Romshoo, who is also the Chief Patron of the event, was present. Prof. Vinod Kumar Gaur, former Secretary in the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, Vice Chancellor of the Central University of Kashmir, and Prof. Mohammad Mubeen, Vice Chancellor of Cluster University of Srinagar, attended as Guests of Honour.
The scientific programme comprises 26 technical sessions, five plenary sessions, invited talks and interactive discussions. Key areas include 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 focus on applications of science and technology in food processing and tourism, two sectors of considerable relevance to the local economy.
A dedicated School Students’ Science Programme, including a segment held in collaboration with the National Children’s Science Congress, will also be part of the event, reflecting an effort to draw younger minds into scientific inquiry.
Addressing the inaugural session, Prof. Singh highlighted the role of science, technology and innovation in transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a knowledge-driven and economically vibrant region. He stressed the need to promote scientific temperament, research and innovation among students and young researchers, and called for stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions, industry, government agencies and young innovators.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Romshoo said the Congress provides an important platform for bringing together stakeholders from the scientific and technological ecosystem. He said IUST remains committed to advancing research, innovation and entrepreneurship and to creating solutions to the developmental and environmental challenges of Jammu and Kashmir. He also pointed to the region’s potential in sustainable energy, biodiversity, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, water management, disaster resilience and emerging technologies, stressing the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
The Congress will also feature cultural and outreach activities aimed at strengthening interaction between academia, industry, policymakers, students and the wider community.
