Excelsior Correspondent
Katra, Feb 16: The National conference on ‘Orchid Science and Commerce: Integration of Medicinal Orchids, Sustainable Development and Societal Benefits’, organized jointly by The Orchid Society of India (TOSI) and School of Biotechnology (SBT) SMVD University, successfully concluded.
The Plenary session of the Conference was chaired by Prof. P. K. Khosla, V.C., Shoolini University, Solan. Dr T Janaki Ram, ADG (Hort.) ICAR, N. Delhi was the chief guest. While Prof. V. Verma, Dean FoE & Director SBT, SMVD University was the guest of honour. Prof. A. K. Bhatnagar, President TOSI and Prof. Promila Pathak, Secretary TOSI and Prof. P. K Rajeevan Vice President TOSI were the panellists.
Prof. V. Verma, in his remarks, observed that this was probably the first national conference on orchids in this region. He applauded the joint efforts of TOSI and SBT, SMVDU in making this one of the best organised conferences. Dr. T. Janakiram stressed that TOSI should take a lead in formulating networking programmes and preparing a road map for digitalisation of all indigenous orchid species and hybrids available in the country.
Prof. P. K. Khosla highlighted the importance of quality research in progress and growth of Indian science.
The conference attracted participants from fourteen different institutes/universities of twelve states/UTs of the country, besides participation from Iran. Apart from nineteen invited lectures, nearly forty research papers were selected for oral and poster presentations. An orchid exhibition of live plants, tissue culture raised plants, plants under hardening and cut flowers attracted a large gathering of visitors. TOSI literature including International Journal of the Orchid Society of India, Orchid News – the Society newsletter and books were also displayed.
In order to create awareness at grass root level, an orchid painting competition was organised for students in different categories. The paintings and posters were judged by an expert panel of judges. Prof. Bhatnagar announced the first, second and third prizes in each category and these were awarded in the valedictory function. At the end, Prof. Pathak presented the vote of thanks.
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