JU hosts national conference on “Innovations in Animal Sciences: Integrating Conservation, Climate Resilience and Public Health Perspectives”

JAMMU : Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, on Thursday emphasised inclusive nation building and a united fight against the drug menace.
The Minister was addressing a National Conference on “Innovations in Animal Sciences: Integrating Conservation, Climate Resilience and Public Health Perspectives” held at the University of Jammu.
The two day conference, being held on 12 and 13 February 2026, has been organized by the Department of Zoology, University of Jammu. It is being supported by the JK Science, Technology and Innovations Council (JKSTIC), Department of Science & Technology and Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA).
Former VC Jammu University and Director Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) Ghaziabad, Professor Manoj Kumar Dhar, Professor Emeritus AcSIR and CSIR, Lucknow Rakesh Pandey, HoD Professor Seema Langer, academicians, researchers and students attended the conference.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that India is entering a transformative era driven by innovation, sustainability and collective progress. He emphasized that nation building must be rooted in inclusiveness, ensuring equitable opportunities and development for all sections of the society.
“The new era belongs to India. We must move forward together with a shared commitment to inclusive growth, social responsibility and sustainable development,” maintained the Minister.
Highlighting the relevance of the conference theme, Satish Sharma said that the fragile Himalayan ecosystems face growing threats from climate change, biodiversity loss and emerging public health challenges. He underscored the importance of integrating conservation efforts with climate resilience and public health strategies to secure a sustainable future.
The Minister also stressed the importance of technology driven solutions in addressing the environmental and societal challenges, including AI-powered monitoring, data-driven ecosystem management and youth engagement through research and innovation.
Expressing serious concern over the drug menace, Satish Sharma reiterated the government’s firm commitment to a sustained and determined campaign against substance abuse. He described drug addiction as a major social and public health challenge that threatens the wellbeing of youth, families and communities.
“The fight against drugs is a collective responsibility. We must work together to protect our youth and build a healthier society through awareness, prevention, rehabilitation and strict enforcement,” he said.
Highlighting the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister reaffirmed that restoration of statehood remains a legitimate democratic expectation. He emphasized the need for constructive and constitutional efforts to facilitate its restoration, strengthening governance and public participation.
“Statehood is our right, and meaningful steps towards its restoration will strengthen democratic institutions and empower people,” he said.
The Minister commended the University of Jammu for hosting the conference and appreciated the efforts of Vice Chancellor Professor Umesh Rai and other Professors for bringing together the scientists, academicians and researchers to deliberate on critical environmental and public health challenges.
Satish Sharma urged the researchers and young scholars to harness scientific innovation and technological interventions to address the pressing issues such as habitat loss, climate resilience and societal challenges including drug abuse. He expressed confidence that the conference would generate actionable ideas and collaborative solutions that contribute to sustainable development, eco-tourism growth and preservation of Jammu and Kashmir’s natural heritage.
“Together, with unity of purpose and collective resolve, we can build a stronger Jammu and Kashmir and contribute meaningfully to a stronger India,” he added.