National Conference on “Environmental Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing Climate” Concludes at University of Jammu

The Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Jammu, successfully concluded a two-day National Conference on “Environmental Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing Climate – The Himalayan Perspective”, funded under RUSA 2.0, and held on January 29 and 30, 2026.

The conference provided a dynamic platform for eminent experts, researchers, and scholars from across the country to engage in in-depth discussions on pressing environmental challenges and to explore sustainable solutions, with a special focus on the fragile and ecologically sensitive Himalayan region.

The valedictory function was graced by Shri Sarvesh Rai (IFS), Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he urged participants to adopt responsible environmental stewardship and emphasized the need for incorporating eco-friendly practices into daily life to create a lasting positive impact. He also appreciated the organizers for hosting a conference of great relevance, particularly in the context of climate change in the Himalayan ecosystem.

Shri Vasu Yadav (IFS), Principal Chief Conservator of Forests; Chairman, J&K Pollution Control Committee; and Director, Department of Ecology, Environment and Remote Sensing, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, attended the event as Guest of Honour. His insightful observations on environmental policy and governance enriched the deliberations, and he reiterated his commitment to extending continued support to the Department in its environmental initiatives.

The Special Guest, Dr. S. Sathya Kumar, renowned biodiversity conservationist and Former Scientist-G and Senior Professor at the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, added scholarly depth to the conference. In his remarks, he highlighted the urgent need for action-oriented conservation, interdisciplinary research, and interdepartmental collaboration to effectively address climate change challenges.

The valedictory session was attended by several eminent experts and dignitaries, including Prof. Anzar A. Khuroo, Prof. Sunil Nautiyal, Dr. Krushnamegh Kunte, Prof. Piyush Malviya, Prof. S. P. S. Dutta, Prof. Anil K. Raina, Prof. Susheel Verma, Dr. Sami Ullah Bhat, Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Dr. Suresh Kumar, Dr. Anshu Gupta, Dr. Sonam Lotus, Dr. Majid Farooq, Dr. Rajan Singh, Dr. Rajeshwar Singh Jasrotia, Dr. C. M. Seth, along with faculty members from various departments of the University.

The session began with a welcome address by Prof. Deepika Slathia, Head of the Department and Convener of the Conference, who warmly welcomed the guests and participants. She informed that key recommendations emerging from extensive deliberations over two days—covering themes such as plant ecology, wildlife ecology, aquatic ecology, air and water pollution, bioremediation, environmental governance, and disaster management—would be formally communicated to relevant government departments for informed policymaking and effective environmental governance.

Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Organizing Secretary, presented a comprehensive report of the conference, highlighting the scientific deliberations, thematic sessions, and major outcomes, particularly in the context of the Himalayan environment. He expressed sincere gratitude to the supporting government departments, including the Jammu and Kashmir Science and Technology Innovation Council, Department of Ecology, Environment and Remote Sensing, J&K Pollution Control Committee, and the Department of Wildlife Protection, for their financial support and cooperation. This was followed by feedback from participants, who shared their experiences and learnings from the conference.

The conference also witnessed the felicitation of eminent faculty members and scholars. Prof. S. P. Dutta, former Head and founder member of the Department, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to aquatic biology and fisheries. Additionally, Prof. A. K. Raina, Dr. C. M. Seth (IFS, Retd.), and Dr. R. S. Jasrotia (IFS, Retd.) were honored for their exceptional contributions to environmental science and research.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Anshu Gupta, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences.