The International Conference on “Nanomaterials and Sustainable Applications” (NANO-SA-2026), organized by the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Jalna, India, was a highly successful two-day event held on February 11–12, 2026. The conference focused on the design, development, and sustainable applications of advanced nanomaterials with unique physical and chemical properties.
Grand Inauguration Highlights Innovation and Expertise
The conference opened with a detailed overview by Dr. Manoj B. Gawande, the convenor of NANO-SA-2026, followed by a warm welcome address from Prof. S.T. Mhaske. The inaugural session featured Prof. Anniruddha B. Pandit as the Chief Guest, delivering an inspiring address on advancements in nanomaterials and sustainable technologies. Prof. Bert Weckhuysen was honoured as the guest of honour, and the session concluded with an eloquent vote of thanks from Prof. G.M. Joshi.
Recognizing Pioneers in Nanoscience
Prof. Anniruddha B. Pandit was felicitated for receiving the prestigious “Vigyan Shri” Award from the President of India. His ground-breaking work in cavitational and multiphase reactor engineering has revolutionized industrial applications and microbial cell disruption. Notably, he developed an energy-efficient method for disrupting microbial cells, providing a superior alternative to traditional industrial techniques.
Prof. Bert Weckhuysen, an internationally acclaimed scientist, received “The Nanomaterials and Sustainable Applications Award 2026” for his pioneering work in operando spectroscopy. His research has significantly advanced catalysis, enabling the development of more sustainable and efficient catalytic processes.
Global Expertise and Collaborative Sponsorship
The conference successfully brought together global experts. The valedictory session was graced by Govind Goyal, Executive Director of Kalika Steel and Alloy Pvt Ltd, along with Dr. Manoj Gawande, Prof. Girish Joshi, and Dr. Manoj Jadhao. Government organizations including ANRF, DRDO, and CSIR, as well as award sponsors Wiley, RSC, and ACS India, played a pivotal role in recognizing excellence in poster presentations and research contributions.
Key Contributors and Collaborators
The conference featured contributions from leading researchers and institutions, including:
*ICT, Mumbai and Marathwada Campus, Jalna: Shashank Mhaske, Sebastian C Peter, Vivek Polshettiwar, Indrajit Ghosh.
*Jagadeesh Rajenahally, Jayaram Kolleboyina, Rajnish Kumar (Wiley)
*American Chemical Society (Catalysis & Chemistry): Manoj Gawande, Hanumant Kale, Dinesh Sawant, Dinesh Chaudhari, Arun Kute, Sharad Lande.
*Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Team: Rohini Kitture, Suresh Jain, Atul Wankhade, Komal Tripathi, Venkata Krishnan, Gianvito Vilé, Subhabrata Mukhopadhyay, Ajay Jha, Aparna Ganguly.
The collective effort and expertise highlighted the latest advances in nanomaterials research and promoted sustainable applications across industries.
Conclusion: A Landmark Event for Nanomaterials Research
NANO-SA-2026 successfully created a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration in nanomaterials science. With active participation from global experts, government agencies, and industry sponsors, the conference reinforced ICT Jalna’s position as a leading hub for nanotechnology research and sustainable applications.
