Bargarh (Odisha) : The NGPRISTS-2025 National Seminar, organized by the Post-Graduate Department of Botany at Panchayat College, Bargarh on November 22 and 23, emerged as an enlightening platform that reshaped the scientific aspirations of students and strengthened the research ecosystem of the region. The two-day conclave brought together distinguished scientists, academicians, and researchers from various institutions across India and abroad, fostering an environment where knowledge, innovation, and youthful curiosity blended seamlessly.
The inaugural session was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Pravat Kumar Mahapatra, who emphasized that research is the backbone of a nation’s progress. In his inspiring address, he urged students to cultivate a mindset of inquiry, remain committed to scientific thinking, and engage with emerging domains of modern science. Dr. E. Kariali and Dr. Rajendra Kumar Behera delivered compelling presentations exploring the depth of life sciences, highlighting modern research trajectories, innovative techniques, and the global opportunities available for budding scholars. Their talks ignited fresh enthusiasm among students to pursue science not just as a subject, but as a creative journey of discovery.
Adding to the academic richness, Dr. Subhasish Panda, Univ of Kalyani, West Bengal spoke on biodiversity conservation, reminding participants of the delicate ecological balance and the crucial responsibility that future generations must shoulder. From Texas, Dr. Adwait Parida, USA, Jacob Muras, USA and Caroline Wayhs, USA joined virtually, offering international perspectives and motivating the young researchers to collaborate beyond geographical boundaries. Their contributions added a global dimension to the seminar. Panchayat College Principal Dr. Nakul Seth led the inaugural day with thoughtful remarks that encouraged both the organizing team and the students to uphold the spirit of academic excellence.
The valedictory session on the second day witnessed the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Rabindranath Pradhan, who highlighted the role of research-based education in shaping the nation’s future. He urged students to embrace scientific discipline, develop critical thinking, and position themselves as future leaders in innovation. Dr. Jenamani Sahoo, Principal of Banaigarh College and Chief Speaker for the session, presented an insightful discourse on the evolving frontier of science and how young scholars can integrate modern research tools into their academic growth. Esteemed academicians including former Professor Dr. Panchanan Pradhan, Dr. Moumita Bandopadhyay, and Dr. Sriti appreciated the seminar’s relevance and described it as a transformative learning opportunity for emerging researchers.
The event was meticulously coordinated by Head of Botany Department Surjyakanti Sikandar, who shared that the seminar has contributed significantly to uplifting the academic landscape of Bargarh district. English Department Head Umesh Chandra Mahapatra, along with faculty members such as Shibshankar Seth and Organizing Secretary Dr. Dileswar Sahu, played pivotal roles in ensuring the program’s success. The smooth conduct of sessions by student coordinators Sankuta Baxla, Joint Organizing Secretary and Bhaskar Sahu, Anchoring by Yushra Bano added to the event’s effectiveness. Former students excelling in various professional fields were felicitated with mementos and floral tributes, showcasing the institution’s pride in their achievements.
Student participation became a highlight of the seminar as paper presentations and poster exhibitions provided a vibrant platform for young minds to showcase their ideas, analyses, and scientific potential. The cultural evening added a delightful dimension with dance, songs, and folk performances, leaving guests thoroughly impressed by the artistic talents of the students. The event concluded with a warm vote of thanks by Organizing Secretary Dr. Dileswar Sahu, marking the end of a memorable academic celebration that promises to inspire many more scientific endeavors in the future.
