On this occasion, Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda and other dignitaries planted native Himalayan saplings under the Green ICMR Campus Initiative. Shri Nadda inaugurated a scientific exhibition for school students, launched the Centre’s website and institutional video, and released a commemorative postal special cover, marking key milestones in the establishment of the ICMR Centre for High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research at Keylong.

The foundation stone laying ceremony will feature a traditional Bhumi Pujan, ceremonial groundbreaking and unveiling of the foundation stone, followed by the plantation of native Himalayan saplings under the Green ICMR Campus Initiative. The programme will also include the inauguration of a scientific exhibition, the launch of the Centre’s institutional video and website, presentation of the building layout, and the release of a commemorative postal special cover by the Union Health Minister.

Referring to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Governor said the message of ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’ underlines the importance of pursuing development while safeguarding India’s rich heritage and natural environment. He also referred to initiatives such as Mission LiFE and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, saying environmental conservation must become a collective responsibility and part of everyday life.

Announcing the university’s academic roadmap, Prof. Bansal said CUHP would organize a National Science Congress in January 2027 to mark its Foundation Day, followed by an International Science Congress in April 2027. The events will provide a platform for scientists and researchers from India and abroad to exchange ideas and promote scientific collaboration.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Jagdev Sharma, Director (Acting), ICAR-CPRI, Shimla, highlighted the increasing importance of processing potatoes in strengthening the potato value chain. He stressed the need for stronger collaboration among research institutions, farmers and the processing industry to improve productivity, processing quality, resource-use efficiency, sustainability and profitability.

Presenting a research paper at an international workshop hosted by one of the world’s most recognised universities is a significant achievement for a doctoral researcher. Aastha’s accomplishment has added another proud chapter to her academic career while bringing recognition to her hometown and the state of Himachal Pradesh.

The programme was attended by Dr. Nishant Verma, Principal Investigator, AICRP on Goat Improvement; Dr. Rakesh Thakur; Dr. Rohit Kumar; and Dr. Praveen Sharma, along with project staff and other University officials. Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries highlighted the importance of fodder tree plantation in ensuring a sustainable supply of quality feed for livestock, particularly in view of changing climatic conditions. They emphasized that fodder-based interventions can simultaneously contribute to livestock productivity, environmental conservation and biodiversity enhancement.

Dr. Bharti’s experience extends beyond clinical medicine and public health. During his early social engagement, he was associated with literacy campaigns, where he worked to promote awareness and community participation. This experience strengthened his ability to connect directly with communities and understand grassroots health concerns.

On the first day, Prof. (Dr.) Umesh V. Banakar delivered an expert lecture on **Drug Dissolution**. He explained the fundamentals of dissolution testing, its significance in pharmaceutical sciences and its important role in the drug development process. He also highlighted how dissolution testing contributes to evaluating the performance and quality of pharmaceutical formulations.

The sacred Havan was conducted amidst the chanting of Vedic hymns. Dr. Ran Singh, Managing Director, Dr. Mahender Singh Ashawat, Director-cum-Principal, faculty members, staff, and newly admitted students participated with devotion, offering oblations and praying for a prosperous, successful, and obstacle-free academic year.