Patiala, 02 March
The Department of Zoology and Environmental Sciences, Punjabi University, Patiala, in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Career Hub (EICH), hosted a highly impactful two-day International Conference titled “Environmental Crisis and Sustainable Management” from February 27 to 28, 2026. The event drew an overwhelming participation of around 450 delegates from various universities and institutions, fostering meaningful discussions on pressing global and regional environmental challenges.
Key Highlights and Inaugural Session
Dr. Onkar Singh Brraich, Convener and Organizing Secretary of the conference, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. In his introductory remarks, he emphasized that while the environmental crisis is a global issue, Punjab faces unique challenges. These include rapidly declining groundwater levels due to the cultivation of water-intensive crops like paddy and wheat, deteriorating air quality, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and the shrinkage of wetlands—all of which demand urgent attention.
The conference addressed eight core themes:
- Climate Change & Global Policy
- Renewable Energy & Clean Technologies
- Biodiversity Conservation & Ecosystem Management
- Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security
- Water Resources Management
- Circular Economy & Waste Management
- Environmental Health & Pollution Control
- Environmental Education & Community Engagement
Prof. Himender Bharti, Director of EICH, Punjabi University, Patiala, delivered special remarks, stressing that the environmental crisis is largely human-induced, while nature itself remains inherently sustainable. He urged humanity to recognize the severity of the situation and take proactive steps to protect the environment.
Inaugural Address by Chief Guest
Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Jagdeep Singh graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, he noted that while environmental problems have been extensively discussed, the time has now come to focus on actionable solutions. He encouraged students and participants to pursue startups and develop innovative technologies to address various environmental issues effectively.
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Notable Keynote and Invited Talks
- Dr. Rasik Ravindra, Former Director, National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Goa, delivered a compelling keynote on India’s expeditions to Antarctica. He highlighted ongoing research at Indian stations to uncover secrets hidden beneath the ice sheets, including glacier age studies through trapped gases, and studies on polar flora and fauna. He expressed deep concern over accelerated glacier melting due to climate change.
- Prof. Amit Dhir from Thapar Institute, Patiala, presented the highly effective “Thapar Model” of wastewater treatment, successfully implemented by the Punjab Government in nearly 1,200 villages to purify village ponds.
- Dr. Jaspreet Singh Dhau (USA) shared insights on patented sustainable firefighting foams for Class-B fires, designed to extinguish flames rapidly and minimize losses.
- Prof. Mewa Singh, University of Mysore (a distinguished professor recently nominated by the Prime Minister of India among 20 professors to promote research nationwide), spoke on primate conservation and restoration in the Western Ghats, where he successfully transformed barren land into thriving forests by planting native species.
- Ms. Gabriella Borda from Malta discussed financial aid provided by Western countries to combat climate change, urging India to accelerate efforts in finding tailored, effective solutions amid rapid resource depletion.
Valedictory Session
On the second day, Dr. Onkar Singh Brraich presented a comprehensive conference report. Prof. Himender Bharti welcomed the guests for the valedictory function.
Smt. Harjot Kaur, SDM, Patiala, attended as Chief Guest and delivered an inspiring address. She motivated participants to strive for excellence in their careers while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Delegates actively participated in paper presentations, poster sessions, and photographic competitions, with enthusiastic responses throughout the two days. Winners were honored with prizes and certificates to recognize their outstanding contributions.
The conference served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective commitment toward sustainable environmental management, inspiring participants to translate discussions into real-world action.
