LUCKNOW: The CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), Lucknow, celebrated the 85th CSIR Foundation Day at the Lotus Auditorium, K.N. Kaul Block, with scientists, research scholars and institute staff coming together to mark the occasion.
Dr Kanad Das, Director, Botanical Survey of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, attended the programme as the chief guest. CSIR-NBRI Director Dr Zabeer Ahmed, in his welcome address, highlighted CSIR’s contribution to India’s scientific and technological capabilities, noting that its network comprises 37 institutions, 39 outreach centres, an innovation complex and five units, with around 3,200 live patents and more than 900 commercialised technologies.
Dr Das spoke about the scientific and ecological importance of fungi and stressed the need for greater research and documentation of microbial and biological diversity. He also appreciated the institute’s Botanic Garden and Herbarium for their role in conserving and showcasing plant diversity and connecting scientific research with students and the wider public.
A major highlight of the event was the felicitation of nine employees who retired during the past year and eight employees who completed 25 years of service at the institute. Winners of painting and essay competitions were also honoured.
Two AcSIR research scholars, Dilip Kumar Maurya and Monalisa, were also felicitated after their artworks were selected for the national-level Sci-Art Exhibition held at the NASC Complex in New Delhi on September 25.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr S.V. Sawant. The programme also provided an opportunity for the NBRI fraternity to reaffirm its commitment to scientific research, innovation, biodiversity conservation and societal outreach.
