Nearly 460 researchers and 140 industrialists gathered at Nehru Centre to discuss the future of chemical research in India.
The conference, themed ‘Net Zero Goal & Sustainability: Role of Chemical Sciences in Green Energy, Circular Economy, and Prosperity of India,’ marked a major milestone in the centennial journey of the Indian Chemical Society (ICS).
First-Ever Industry Collaboration at ICS Annual Conference
For the first time, ICS, a premier scientific institution, collaborated with industry leaders for its annual conference. This initiative signaled a new era of synergy between academia and industry. The event featured some of the most distinguished minds in chemical science, including Prof. Manmohan Sharma, Prof. Raghunath Mashelkar, and Prof. Lakshmi Kantam.
Highlighting ICS’s historical significance, Chairman Prof. G. D. Yadav noted that ICS was established on May 9, 1924, as a national forum for chemists and allied professionals. Visionaries such as Dr. J. N. Mukerjee, Dr. S. S. Bhatnagar, Dr. J. C. Ghosh, and Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray played pivotal roles in its formation.
Roots in Nationalistic Movement and Scientific Aspirations
The foundation of ICS was deeply linked to India’s nationalistic movement.
As early as 1919, while researching in London, chemists Mukherjee, Ghosh, and Bhatnagar envisioned an Indian counterpart to the prestigious Chemical Society of London.
On returning to India, they transformed this vision into what is now one of the country’s most respected chemical societies.
Prof. Yadav emphasized the crucial role of industry in shaping the chemical sector, tracing its origins back to Acharya P. C. Ray.
Prof Yadav stated, “Ray not only founded Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals in 1901 but also mentored young scientists, inspiring them to establish ICS. His contributions laid the foundation for India’s chemical industry”.
Honouring Excellence in Chemical Sciences
A major highlight of the conference was the recognition of 69 researchers and several industrialists for their contributions to chemical sciences.
West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose honoured Manmohan Sharma and Raghunath Mashelkar with awards of ₹1 lakh each for their groundbreaking work in chemical sciences and technology.
In his keynote address, Mashelkar explored how artificial intelligence and serendipity drive scientific breakthroughs. He stressed the importance of fostering collaboration between industry and researchers to accelerate innovation in chemical sciences.
Strengthening Industry-Academia Partnerships
Professor Arun Sawant, former pro-vice-chancellor of Mumbai University, praised ICS for strengthening industry-academia ties. “This event reflects ICS’s commitment to P. C. Ray’s vision,” he noted. “Industry participation enriches research discussions and provides sponsorships, enabling young scientists to attend high-level conferences.”
During the valedictory function, senior scientist Anil Kakodkar highlighted the importance of nuclear energy and thorium in the circular economy. The conference concluded with Prof. Yadav’s proposal to declare August 2, Acharya P. C. Ray’s birthday, as National Chemistry Day.
Efforts to Build Sir P. C. Ray Memorial Building
In 1967, ICS acquired a 660-square-meter plot in Kankurgachi, Kolkata, to establish the Sir P. C. Ray Memorial Building. Although Prof. J. N. Mukherjee laid the foundation stone in 1970, financial constraints stalled the construction. The society continues to seek funding from government agencies and private donors to bring this vision to life.
“I am working to connect industries through CSR initiatives to complete this dream building,” said Yadav. “This project will significantly benefit chemistry researchers.”
As reported by hindustantimes.com, the conference showcased the power of collaboration, bridging academia and industry to drive India’s chemical science advancements into the future.
