Argus News - Odisha Research Conclave 2025 Kicks Off at Berhampur University

Berhampur, Nov 27: The fifth edition of the Odisha Research Conclave – 2025, popularly known as the “State Research Mahakumbh,” began at Berhampur University here in Odisha on Thursday with a resounding call to innovative and impactful research, officials said.

The conclave, jointly organised by the Odisha State Higher Education Council (OSHEC) and Berhampur University, aims to chart a roadmap for a Viksit Odisha by 2036 and a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Record Participation

This year’s conclave has drawn unprecedented participation, with 657 researchers, academics, and faculty members from 17 state universities. The three-day event is being hosted at the Biju Patnaik Auditorium and across the university campus.

Inaugural Ceremony

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Geetanjali Dash presided over the inauguration, while University of Hyderabad Vice-Chancellor Prof. B.J. Rao attended as Chief Guest. Prof. Dhananjay Singh, Member Secretary of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), joined as Guest of Honour.

Addressing young scholars, Prof. Rao urged them to align their research with national aspirations. “Research must be dedicated towards shaping a developed Odisha and a developed India. The nation needs more innovative and creative research that can position India as a Viswa Guru,” he said. Prof. Singh announced ICSSR’s upcoming scheme to extend research grants to undergraduate students, strengthening the research culture from an early stage.

Publications and Prototypes

Berhampur University released its latest Research Journal (RJBU), literary magazine Bhanjajyoti, monthly bulletin Bhanja Bani, and a compendium of research abstracts. Innovative prototypes, including nano-material projects developed by university researchers, were also inaugurated.

Prof. Dash presented a detailed report on the university’s research progress, highlighting central and state-funded projects and their outcomes. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Sukant Kumar Tripathy, Chairman of the Post-Graduate Council.

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Roundtable Deliberations

Following the inauguration, vice-chancellors from leading science universities, including Gangadhar Meher University and Biju Patnaik University of Technology, deliberated on knowledge-driven development strategies. Discussions focused on scientific innovation, emerging technologies, and scaling knowledge-based growth for Odisha and India.

Exhibitions and Events

Day one featured a poster exhibition showcasing science-based research at the University Stadium. The next two days will include roundtable discussions on Management and Social Sciences, poster presentations on Social Sciences, and cultural programmes. Hospitality arrangements have been made at Berhampur University and Parala Maharaja Engineering College for participants. The conclave will continue until November 29, 2025.