GIST Meet 2023: A global confluence of innovation and inspiration

In my personal journey, I have made it a priority to give back something to the society and community by actively hosting scientific programs, interviewing scientists and organizing workshops for young minds. Witnessing the spark of curiosity in their eyes and their eagerness to explore the unknown reaffirms my belief in the potential of young Indian minds.

Recently, I had this opportunity of hosting an international conference - GIST Meet 2023 and GI YSRI conference, which was jointly organised by the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and Vijnana Bharati and co-sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The ground-breaking event, held at ICAR Convention Centre, New Delhi, from May 29 to June 2, was graced by Union Minister of State for Food Processing and Jal Shakti, Prahlad Singh.

It was inaugurated by Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush. Speaking on the occasion, Kotecha said, “The GIST Meet and GI-YSRI Conference provides a unique platform for global Indian scientists and technocrats to contribute to science and technology advancement."

He further highlighted the role of Ayurveda in promoting the overall well-being.

Apart from eminent personalities, scholars and leaders from the Indian diaspora focusing on promoting collaboration and innovation in the fields of science and technology, the conference was attended by 300 research scholars, postdoctoral fellows, young investigators and rural innovators from across India.

Prof. (Dr) Tanuja Nesari, Director, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) emphasized on the efforts being put in by scientists and technocrats in preparing a roadmap for science initiatives and traditional systems like Ayurveda and Ayurvedahaar.

Among several trail-blazing initiatives, the event served as a platform to the delegates to engage and take stock of the ongoing partnerships and collaborations between science and technology diaspora and Indian scholars and leaders, and addressing important societal needs.

The conference was themed around Aahaar Kranti and immunity, agricultural sciences, ayurveda, earth science, engineering, environmental sciences, life sciences, and translational research.

International convenor of GIST Forum Dr. Yelloji-Rao Mirajkar said that Aahar Kranti Abhiyaan is a revolutionary approach aimed at making India a Vishwa Guru. He also underlined the fact that food production (in calories) is four times compared to its consumption.

Founder Vice-Chancellor of DY Patil International University, Akurdi, Pune, Prof. Prabhat Ranjan enlightened about ‘Technology Vision 2035’ with a focus on quality of life of Indians besides the roadmap for different sectors and prerogatives. On the threat from Artificial Intelligence, Prof. Ranjan said, “We should embrace it to improve our efficiency and make ourselves do tasks that were not possible otherwise.”

He mentioned that it was due to AI technology that he could become a story writer and an illustrator within a few weeks.

Co-founder of ARNALife Dr Rashmi Kulkarni said that Microbiomes are our Superheroes. She categorically explained why microbiomes are our better halves.

One of the key highlights of the forum was Vigyan Vibhuti Samman. Prahlad Singh conferred the prestigious Vigyan Vibhuti Samman to Prof. Rajeev Varshney. Grassroot innovators were also awarded for their contributions in finding solutions to rural and local problems.

The event showcased the incredible achievements and contributions of Indian scientists and technocrats across a wide range of disciplines. They could forge connections with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world. This networking aspect is crucial for fostering partnerships that have the potential to translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible solutions and products that benefit the society. Several sessions were dedicated to mentoring and guiding aspiring scientists and technocrats. Men of eminence with a proven track-record in their specialisation provided them with invaluable insights and advice to pursue successful careers in their chosen domains.

This focus on the next generation ensures a robust and sustainable pipeline of Indian talent that can make significant contributions to the global scientific community and bring laurels to the country.