The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS-DU) successfully hosted a one-day workshop on Industry Oriented Student Research Projects on 15th July 2025, organized jointly by the School of Indigenous Knowledge, Science and Technology (IKST), the School of Comparative Indic Studies and Tribal Science (CIST), Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), Centre for Indigenous Science and Technology, and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC).
The Inaugural Session commenced with the Lighting of the Lamp, followed by a warm welcome address by Professor Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU. In his address, he emphasized the growing importance of integrating academic research with industrial prospects, especially in areas that support sustainable development and innovation.The Chief Guest delivered an insightful address, highlighting the role of student research in driving real-world solutions. The inaugural session concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, KISS-DU.
The Plenary Session featured engaging and informative lectures by eminent scientists and researchers.
Prof. (Dr.) Partha Pratim Ray, Professor of Physics, Jadavpur University, spoke on “Use of Alternate Energy Resources.” He focused on various solar technologies, such as solar thermal systems, photovoltaic cells, and solar power generators. He explained the basic structure of solar cells, their material composition, industrial uses, and cost-effectiveness in meeting global energy demands.Prof. (Dr.) Gopal C. Kundu, Professor and Director R&D, KIIT-DU, delivered a talk on “Expanding Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity.” He emphasized the need for industry-oriented research at KISS, especially in community health and ethical research practices. His presentation also stressed the critical role of digital infrastructure in transforming rural and tribal education and healthcare systems.Prof. (Dr.) Himansu Sekhar Biswal, School of Chemical Sciences, NISER, Bhubaneswar, presented on “Catalysis in Water: Lab to Industry.” He advocated the use of water soluble ionic catalysts as sustainable alternatives to traditional organic solvents in chemical synthesis. He explained how this approach could reduce environmental pollution and enable affordable drug manufacturing for the pharmaceutical industry.Dr. Debasish Dash, Director, Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar, presented a captivating talk on the “Blue Economy.” He explained how the sustainable use of ocean resources can boost economic growth, improve livelihoods, and preserve the health of marine ecosystems. Prof. (Dr.) S.K.S. Parashar, Professor of Physics, KIIT-DU, shared his insights on nanotechnology, focusing on fundamental concepts and how research outputs from KISS-DU can be transformed into patent. The Panel Discussion Session was chaired by Prof. Kajal Parashar, Associate Professor, KIIT-DU. The session facilitated active dialogues between participants and speakers, exploring possibilities for research collaboration and industry engagement.
The workshop concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Bikram Keshari Das, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, KISS-DU, who acknowledged the dedication of all the organizers, speakers, and participants in making the event a success.
