New Delhi: A three-day International Conference on “Sustainability through Fundamental and Applied Sciences (STFAS-2026)” commenced with great enthusiasm at Hindu College, University of Delhi, bringing together eminent scientists, academicians, researchers, and students from across India and abroad. The conference aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation towards sustainable development through scientific research and practical applications.
Prof. Anju Srivastava, Principal of Hindu College, in her opening remarks, welcomed the distinguished guests and participants and underscored the urgent need to integrate fundamental and applied sciences to address contemporary global challenges. She emphasized that “academic institutions must play a pivotal role in nurturing responsible, innovative, and sustainability-oriented future leaders.” She further noted that “STFAS 2026 serves as a vital international platform that brings together scientific insight and applied research to develop sustainable solutions, in alignment with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020.”
The Chief Guest, Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR and Secretary, DSIR, delivered an inspiring address. She congratulated the parents of the students for guiding them towards quality education at Hindu College. Reflecting on India’s scientific journey, she noted that the country has transitioned from dependence on other nations for essential resources such as food and vaccines to becoming self-reliant and globally competitive. She emphasized that science and technology are central to sustainable development and encouraged students to immerse themselves in research, stating that exposure to the “fragrance and flavor of research” builds confidence and paves the way for successful startups and innovations. She further underlined that sustainability remains the key focus of national development, with technologies now supporting not only large-scale progress but also empowering small farmers and ensuring long-term socio-economic growth.
On this occasion, several significant publications were released, including the Book of Abstracts, a handbook titled “Art of Instrumentation: From Basic to Brilliance,” and the college magazines “TATVA” (Chemistry Society) and “EUREKA” (Physics Society). The release was graced by a distinguished gathering of eminent dignitaries, including Prof. Anju Srivastava, Principal of Hindu College; Shri T. C. A. Rangachari, Chairman of the Governing Body; Shri Sant Sanganeria, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of Ultra International Limited; Prof. Reena Jain, Convenor; and Prof. N. Santakrus Singh, Co-convenor of the International Conference.
The conference featured multiple technical sessions addressing diverse themes of sustainability. Session I, titled “From Earth Resources to Advanced Biomaterials: Pathways to Sustainability,” included insightful lectures by Prof. Dinesh Mohan (JNU) on biochar and its role in sustainable futures, Dr. S. K. Dhawan (Vikas Lifecare Limited) on waste plastic management and circular economy, Dr. Abhishek K. Singh (Freie University of Berlin, Germany) on smart biomaterials for biomedical challenges, and Dr. Khushbu Kushwaha (Wiley) on geodiversity initiatives in India. The session was chaired by Prof. Vivek Kumar, Head, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, IIT Delhi.
Session II, titled “Sustainable Technologies: From Rural Innovation to Advanced Materials,” brought together leading experts including Prof. Vivek Kumar (IIT Delhi), who discussed sustainable development and circular economy in the Indian context; Dr. Rohan D. Erande (IIT Jodhpur), who spoke on sustainable approaches to natural products and drug discovery and Prof. Vijay Kumar Thakur (University of Edinburgh, UK), who elaborated on the design and development of nanocomposites for bio-renewable resources. This session was chaired by Prof. Dinesh Mohan (JNU).
Session III, titled “From Concept to Contributions,” showcased oral and poster presentations by over 300 participants, reflecting the vibrant research culture and innovative spirit of young scholars. The presentations covered a wide range of topics aligned with sustainability, highlighting the active engagement of students and researchers in addressing pressing environmental and technological challenges.
