Solan, February 28
On the occasion of National Science Day, the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Shoolini University, in collaboration with the EYUVA Centre (supported by BIRAC, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India) and iHUB Shoolini (supported by iHUB DivyaSampark, TIH, DST, Government of India and IIT Roorkee), organised a one-day symposium on “Bio-Innovation and Startups: Transforming Natural Products into Healthcare Solutions.”
The symposium aimed to provide students and faculty with meaningful insights into emerging trends in bio-innovation, entrepreneurship, and the conversion of natural products into practical healthcare solutions.
On the occasion, Vice Chancellor Prof. Atul Khosla addressed the gathering and spoke about the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in research and healthcare innovation. He encouraged students to make full use of the advanced infrastructure and research facilities available at Shoolini University to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.
Chancellor Prof. P. K. Khosla motivated young scholars and faculty members to strengthen their academic and research vision in order to achieve excellence and contribute meaningfully to society.
Dean, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chief Coordinator of the EYUVA Centre, Dr. Deepak Kumar, spoke about the research funding support received from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT-BIRAC) and iHUB DivyaSampark at IIT Roorkee. He highlighted the expanding ecosystem for innovation and translational research. He also paid tribute to Sir C. V. Raman for his outstanding contribution to science, noting that his legacy continues to inspire generations of researchers.
During the technical sessions, Former CSIR-Emeritus Scientist and Chief Scientist, Head of the Medicinal Process Chemistry Division at CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Dr. Rakesh Maurya, discussed the role of medicinal plants in managing stress and lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
In addition, Professor and Director, School of Natural Products Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, Dr. Pallab K. Haldar, explained how traditional Indian medicinal plants can help in controlling metabolic disorders and improving overall health.
Director of Panjab University–IIT Ropar Regional Accelerator for Holistic Innovations (PI-RAHI), Panjab University, Chandigarh, Dr. Rajat Sandhir, spoke about the growing startup culture in India and encouraged students to convert innovative ideas into successful enterprises.
Senior Scientist at CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Dr. Kapil Dev, highlighted the development of plant-based natural compounds into medicines for heart-related ailments and pain management.
Senior Principal Scientist at CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, and Professor at the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Dr. Atul Gupta, delivered a lecture on the design and development of new medicines in laboratories, focusing on safer and more effective drug molecules.
On this occasion, certificates were distributed to selected students who qualified for the National Zonal Championship at IIT Delhi.
The symposium concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Abhishek Singh, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished speakers, university leadership, organising committee, and participants for making the event a success.
