Srinagar, Dec 05: To acquaint wildlife professionals, scientists and scholars with advanced tools and techniques in molecular biology and forensic diagnostics, the Centre of Research for Development (CORD), Kashmir University (KU) inaugurated a three-day hands-on training workshop Tuesday here.
The programme aims to augment the participants’ comprehension of the subject through practical training sessions, enabling them to make substantive contributions to scientific research and wildlife conservation efforts covering a wide array of topics and techniques crucial for evidence-based wildlife forensic diagnostics and metagenomic analysis of genetic data.
In a her message issued here, Vice Chancellor, KU, Prof Nilofer Khan said that the workshop will empower participants with insights and skills essential for the conservation and understanding of the natural world.
“By bringing together wildlife professionals, scientists and scholars, we aim to provide a platform for the exchange of innovative ideas and the acquisition of advanced tools and techniques in these crucial fields,” Prof Khan said, adding that the workshop signifies KU’s commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering expertise in molecular biology and forensic diagnostics.
Director, CORD and workshop convenor, Prof Mohammad Niamat Ali said that the workshop serves as a catalyst for driving meaningful change and fostering cross-disciplinary exchange for a better future.
“We are sure the cradle of collaborative learning and innovation will guide us on a journey to harness collective wisdom in shaping a brighter tomorrow,” Prof Niamat said.
Highlighting the recent advancements in wildlife diagnostics, Chief Principal Scientist, CCMB, Hyderabad, Dr Karthikeyan Vasudevan, said: “Our pursuit of cutting-edge advancements in wildlife diagnostics and commitment to push the boundaries of scientific exploration reaffirm our dedication to safeguard biodiversity through innovative research and technology,” he said.
Workshop organising secretary and Incharge, CoSI Lab (Conservation Science and Innovation Laboratory), Dr Tawqir Bashir; Regional Wildlife Warden-Kashmir, DWP (Department of Wildlife Protection), J&K, Rashid Y Naqash; Wildlife Warden, Shopian, Intesar Suhail and Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, DWP, Dr Mohsin A Gazi also spoke on the occasion.
Titled ‘Wildlife Forensics and Metagenomics’ runs through December 7, 2023 and is being organised in collaboration with Atal Incubation Centre-Cellular and Molecular Biology (AIC-CCMB), Rural Electrification Corporation (RECL), Jammu, Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (LaCONES-CCMB) and IKP Knowledge Park, Hyderabad.
Resource persons from LaCONES, CCMB, Hyderabad will be sharing their expertise with participants representing various government departments and educational institutions.
Project Associate, CoSI Lab, Safiya Shabir delivered the formal vote of thanks.
