Silchar: The three-day International Conference at Cachar College concluded with its valedictory session on Saturday. The conference, held from November 6 to 8, was supported by the State Bank of India, Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Department of Science and Technology (DST), and the Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC).

It was organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Cachar College on the theme “International Conference on Transdisciplinary Approaches in Contemporary Scientific Research.”

Distinguished guests present on the dais at the closing ceremony included MLA Dipayan Chakraborty, Joint Director of Higher Education, Assam, Prasanna Bora, Deputy Director Sumitra Dev, Director of the College Development Council, Assam University, Jayanta Bhattacharjee, Governing Body member Prof. Parag Seal, Prof. Anup Kumar Dey, and Governing Body President Prof. Parthankar Choudhury. The Principal of Cachar College, Dr. Apratim Nag, presided over the event. The dignitaries were felicitated with traditional uttariyas and mementos.

The aim of the conference was to explore new perspectives in contemporary scientific research through transdisciplinary approaches. Dr. Mukul Kumar Baruah, Coordinator of IQAC, presented a detailed report of the sessions.

He mentioned that eminent researchers, scientists, and academicians from various states of India as well as from the USA, France, South Korea, and Israel participated in the conference. Around 200 research papers were presented, including 37 virtual presentations. The proceedings of the conference had already been published. A vibrant cultural evening was held on November 7 to mark the occasion.

Speaking at the valedictory session, Prasanna Bora emphasized that research should be student-centric and socially relevant, directed toward the progress of society. Sumitra Dev said that integrating knowledge across disciplines can help address global challenges more effectively.

Jayanta Bhattacharjee highlighted the growing importance of scientific research in a rapidly changing world and discussed the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 along with the shared responsibility of teachers and students.

Prof. Parthankar Choudhury observed that several significant ideas emerged during the three days, which will guide future academic initiatives. Prof. Anup Kumar Dey noted that one of the landmark features of the NEP 2020 is the introduction of research opportunities at the undergraduate level, allowing many undergraduate students to present their papers at this conference.

Prof. Parag Seal remarked that true research knows no boundaries of subject, course, place, or time—it must remain open and exploratory.

Principal Dr. Apratim Nag, in his heartfelt address, expressed gratitude to the faculty members whose collective efforts made the conference possible. He said the event would mark a milestone in the college’s academic journey and future growth.

In an emotional address during the closing session, MLA Dipayan Chakraborty, an alumnus of Cachar College, recalled his association with the institution. He mentioned that he had contributed funds from his MLA Local Area Development Fund to build the college’s smart classroom, which also hosted this international conference—something he described as deeply fulfilling.

Six best paper presenters from the main sessions received awards and certificates, announced by Dr. Neetu Debnath. Awards were also presented to seven offline and five online presenters for outstanding oral presentations.

The event was anchored by Assistant Professor Nabarupa Dhar, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Neetu Debnath, Associate Professor of Zoology. The programme concluded with a collective rendering of the National Anthem led by Dr. Parmita Das, Head of the Department of Commerce, and Dr. Sucharita Choudhury, Assistant Professor of Bengali.