ICAR short course on Nanotechnology concluded

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, Mumbai organized a 10 day short course on “Advances in Applications of Nanotechnology in Agriculture” during January 29 to February 08, 2024. The event was sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.

During the valedictory session held on 8th February 2024, Dr. N. Vigneshwaran, Principal Scientist and Course Director presented a brief report on the short course, covering topics such as lectures, practical exercises, visits, and discussions conducted throughout the programme.

Dr. S. K. Shukla, Director, ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai in his valedictory address, emphasized the necessity of a collaborative approach to research for the successful adoption of nano-based technologies in agriculture and allied sectors. He also highlighted that training offers an opportunity for mutual learning, enriching the knowledge base of both trainers and trainees. He concluded that for India to achieve the status of a developed country by 2047, there is a critical need to place significant emphasis on emerging fields of research, such as nanotechnology. Integration of these advanced areas of study should be facilitated through collaboration among researchers, teaching faculties, and students, aiming for the overall betterment of society. Dr. A. Arputharaj, Senior Scientist & Course Coordinator delivered the vote of thanks.

The 10 day short course covered wide variety of topics including synthesis of nanomaterials, various characterization techniques, application methods in agriculture & allied sectors, packaging of fruits & vegetables, finishing of cotton textiles, production of bio-nanocomposites & wound dressing, environmental management, and nanotoxicology. Special emphasis was placed on hands-on practical exercises to be performed by the trainees themselves.

A total of 17 scientists and professors from various research organizations and universities in different states participated in this training programme, of whom 9 were females.