Srinagar, Aug 07: The 1st National Conference on Nano and Supramolecular Chemistry (NCNSC-2025) commenced on Thursday at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar. According to a statement issued here, the two-day event is being organised by the Department of Chemistry, with a focus on cutting-edge developments in nanochemistry and supramolecular sciences.Addressing the gathering virtually, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, welcomed all dignitaries, researchers, and students participating in the conference. He expressed his delight that the Department of Chemistry was hosting a national-level conference on such a relevant theme.“Nanoscience helps us understand materials at the nanoscale, opening possibilities in medicine, materials engineering, and more. I am confident that the rich deliberations and knowledge-sharing from our distinguished speakers will inspire young minds attending this conference,” he said.Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir, Dean R&C, said, “These fields are revolutionizing targeted drug delivery, energy storage, material development, and smart diagnostics. This conference is a significant step in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and nurturing innovative research.”Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, in his address, said this conference is more than just a gathering of minds.Prof. Rehman said, “As we navigate the 21st century, the convergence of nanotechnology and supramolecular chemistry is not only reshaping scientific disciplines but also offering practical solutions to societal challenges,” he added.In his presiding address, Prof. Mohammad Akbar Khuroo said he has a longstanding association with the institute, recalling the days when NIT Srinagar was known as REC (Regional Engineering College).“My journey with this department began in the 1980s, under the leadership of Prof. Shakti Rayees. There used to be frequent academic exchanges between the University of Kashmir and REC’s Chemistry Department,” he said. Prof. Khuroo urged young researchers to pursue science with a mission. This is one of the finest subjects for aspiring scientists. It will be a golden opportunity for young researchers to engage with new ideas and breakthroughs, he added.In her inaugural address, HOD Chemistry and Chairperson of the conference, Prof. Kowsar Majid stated, “We firmly believe that open dialogue and in-depth scientific discussion can help young researchers contribute meaningfully to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” she said. “These two disciplines complement each other, enabling the creation of highly organized, functional nanostructures with wide-ranging applications in catalysis, sensing, energy, and medicine,” Prof. Kowsar added.HOD MED, Prof. (HAG) M. F. Wani and senior faculty member was felicitated for his special contributions to the growth and excellence of NIT Srinagar. He also shared key insights for budding researchers, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, discipline, and collaborative research.Prof. Kowsar also appreciated the continued support of successive Directors, especially Prof. Rakesh Sehgal, in strengthening research. Commending the current Director, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, she called his leadership at NIT Srinagar, a remarkable example of dedication and vision.Earlier in his welcome address, Dr. Jigneshkumar V. Rohit said that the goal of NCNSC-2025 is to deliberate on recent advancements in nano and supramolecular materials and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration in chemical sciences.