ICMR sponsored workshop on regenerative medicine begins at SKUAST-K

Srinagar, Dec 05: A ten-day workshop on ‘Biomaterials and Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine’ was inaugurated today at SKUAST-Kashmir, main campus Shalimar.
The workshop is organized by varsity’s Division of Veterinary Clinical Complex, Shuhama, and is sponsored by the Department of Health Research, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, GoI.
More than 20 scientists and research scholars from across the country are participating to update their knowledge and refine their skills on application of Biomaterials & Stem Cells. The workshop will feature lectures and demonstrations from leading National and International experts in stem cell research.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Kashmir Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, was the Chief Guest in the inaugural session, accompanied by Dr Geeta Jotwani, Senior Deputy Director General, ICMR as the Guest of Honour. Besides the participants, the inaugural function was attended by University officers, Heads of Divisions and the faculty members.
In his address, Prof Ganai congratulated the workshop organizers for choosing the theme that has the potential to shape the future of therapeutics and personalized medicine. He apprised the audience about SKUAST-K’s achievements in research and innovation particularly in the field of animal vaccine technology, reproductive biotechnology, stem cell and biomaterials, and the antimicrobial resistance.
Dr Geeta Jotwani appreciated the efforts of SKUAST-Kashmir in addressing the issues of common concern and assured full support for public health related endeavours. She shared the journey of framing regulations and guidelines for use and application of Stem Cells in Medicine. She also spoke about the ICMR research activities, priority areas and various funding schemes.
Director Research, SKUAST-Kashmir Prof Haroon Naik, highlighted the pressing societal issues related to emerging health threats, and the scope of regenerative medicine. He also threw light on key initiatives taken by SKUAST-K in the field of One Health.
Prof Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Incharge Dean of the Veterinary Faculty talked about research achievements in the field of regenerative medicine. He expressed hope that the participants will gain knowledge about stem cells and biomaterials, and skills for their use in medical practice.
Earlier, workshop Convenor Dr Amatul Muhee presented the welcome address and organizing Secretary Dr Mudasir Bashir Gugjoo gave a detailed account of the 10-day workshop. A compendium was also released during the inaugural function. Prof Azmat Alam Khan, OSD to Vice Chancellor, presented the vote of thanks.