Bhopal media delegation visits CSIR-IIIM, Suchetgarh border

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Sept 24: A media delegation from Bhopal, on an exposure tour organized by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), today visited CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, and Border Outpost (BOP) Suchetgarh to gain first-hand insight into scientific research, innovation, border management and tourism initiatives.

At CSIR-IIIM, the visiting journalists interacted with scientists and officials and were briefed on the Institute’s research, societal mission projects and bio-entrepreneurship initiatives. Welcoming the delegation, Dr Saurabh Saran highlighted the Institute’s advanced facilities and industry linkages, describing CSIR-IIIM as a bridge connecting industries, startups, farmers, youth, academic institutions and Government agencies. He said the institute was pursuing drug leads for challenging conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, osteoarthritis and cancer pain, by integrating traditional Ayurveda with modern medicine.

Dr Suphla Gupta, Senior Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer for the CSIR Aroma Mission, briefed the delegation on the Aroma Mission, Floriculture Mission and Bioresource Conservation & Prospection initiatives. She also highlighted the JIGYASA programme aimed at exposing students to advanced scientific equipment and technical processes.

Dr Amit Nargotra, Senior Principal Scientist, explained the work being undertaken at the Plant Science Laboratory, including studies of chemical compounds derived from medicinal and aromatic plants. Anil Kumar Katare, Senior Principal Scientist, outlined drug formulation protocols and the screening of candidates for safety, efficacy and toxicity.

Dr Vidushi Abrol, Business Manager, BioNEST IIIM-Technology Business Incubator (TBI), briefed the delegation on incubation support aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable employment opportunities, particularly in J&K.

Later, at Suchetgarh BOP, the delegation interacted with BSF personnel and was briefed by senior officers on round-the-clock border management and the multi-layered security grid along the International Border. Officers also explained border tourism initiatives aimed at showcasing border life, the role and sacrifices of security forces and creating livelihood opportunities for local residents.

Officials said Suchetgarh has emerged as a prominent patriotic tourism destination, attracting nearly 1,500 visitors daily on weekdays, while weekend footfall rises to around 2,000–4,000 visitors per day.