The National Conference on Biological Sciences - Day 1

The National Conference on Biological Sciences: Exploring the Wonders of Life – Advances in Science, Innovation and Sustainability (BSEWL-2026) was successfully organized by the Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Khaja Bandanawaz University, in collaboration with the IQAC of Bi Bi Raza Degree College for Women, Kalaburagi and in association with the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Department of Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka, Bengaluru. The two-day national conference was held on 10–11 February 2026 at the Khaja Bandanawaz University Main Campus, Kalaburagi. The conference served as a significant academic platform bringing together eminent scientists, academicians, researchers, healthcare professionals, technologists and students from various institutions across India to deliberate on contemporary developments and challenges in biological sciences.

The National Conference BSEWL–2026 formally commenced on 10 February 2026 with the registration of delegates from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by the Inaugural Ceremony held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The programme began with a warm and gracious welcome address delivered by Dr. Benny Kuriakose, Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education, Khaja Education Society. The inaugural ceremony was marked by the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and wisdom. The lamp was lit by Prof. Syed Ashfaq Ahmed, Hon’ble Pro Vice-Chancellor of Khaja Bandanawaz University, along with the distinguished Chief Guest, Prof. A. H. Rajasaab, Chairman of the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Bengaluru. The ceremony was further graced by the presence of Dr. Benny Kuriakose, Secretary, Primary and Secondary Education, Khaja Education Society; Dr. Kaneez Fathima, Convener of the conference; and the Organizing Secretaries, Dr. Syed Abrar and Dr. Romana Mirdhe, along with other dignitaries and members of the organizing committee.

A significant highlight of the inaugural programme was the formal release of the Conference Souvenir, commemorating the scholarly contributions presented at BSEWL–2026. On this occasion, Dr. Kaneez Fathima, Convener of the conference, presented a comprehensive overview of the objectives and significance of the National Conference, emphasizing its role in fostering scientific dialogue and innovation in biological sciences.The Chief Guest Address was delivered by Prof. A. H. Rajasaab, Chairman, Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Bengaluru, who shared valuable insights on the importance of scientific research and innovation for sustainable development. The inaugural session concluded with the Presidential Remarks by Prof. Syed Ashfaq Ahmed, Hon’ble Pro Vice-Chancellor of Khaja Bandanawaz University, who highlighted the relevance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing biological sciences. The event was further honored by the presence of Sri Shashil Gangadhar Namoshi, Hon’ble Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council representing the North-East Teachers Constituency, who joined the dignitaries and the organizing committee during the ceremony.The inaugural programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Syed Abrar, Organizing Secretary of BSEWL–2026, expressing sincere gratitude to the distinguished guests, speakers, participants and the organizing team for their valuable contributions towards the successful commencement of the conference.

The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, academicians and invited speakers. The highlight of the inaugural session was the keynote address delivered by Prof. A. H. Rajasab, Chairman, Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Bengaluru,on the topic“Recent Development in Science and Technology.” In his address, he emphasized the transformative role of modern scientific innovations and emerging technologies in addressing contemporary societal challenges. He also discussed the importance of interdisciplinary research, technological advancements and sustainable scientific practices in shaping the future of biological sciences and allied disciplines.

Following the keynote lecture, Session I commenced with invited talks by eminent scholars. Prof. Irfan Ahmad Ghazi, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Hyderabad, delivered an engaging lecture titled “Opportunities and Scope of Biological Sciences in India and Abroad.” He highlighted the expanding academic and research opportunities in biological sciences at both national and international levels and encouraged young scholars to pursue interdisciplinary research and global collaborations. The second invited talk of the session was delivered by Dr. Rajasamarsen Modi, Associate Professor, Department of Botany, Government First Grade College, Naubad, Bidar, on “Doctrine of Signatures: A Unique Path to Drug Discovery.” His lecture emphasized the relevance of traditional knowledge systems and ethnobotanical insights in guiding modern pharmaceutical research and drug discovery. The session was chaired by Dr. Girish Lendi, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, SECAB A.R.S.I. Arts, Science and Commerce College for Women, Vijayapur, while Dr. Shabana Begum served as the Rapporteur.

After the lunch break, Session II featured an invited lecture by Dr. Mohd. Akif, Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, University of Hyderabad, who delivered a talk titled “Understanding Biological Processes by Exploring Structure, Function and Dynamics of Biomolecules.” He highlighted the importance of biomolecular structure and function in understanding complex biological mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets. The session was chaired by Dr. Geetanjali R. Kamble, Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Khaja Bandanawaz University, while Dr. M. A. Mujeeb served as the Rapporteur. The session was followed by oral presentations from 2:20 PM to 3:30 PM, where researchers and scholars presented their innovative research findings across various domains of biological sciences.

The third technical session (Session III) was conducted after the tea break. Dr. Syeda Kahkshan Tanveer Fatima, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Smt. A.S.M. College for Women, Ballari, delivered an invited talk titled “Role of Probiotics in Inland Fish Production with Special Reference to Indian Major Carps.” She highlighted the significance of probiotics in improving fish health, growth performance and sustainable aquaculture practices. This was followed by an invited lecture by Dr. Shweta R. Gophane, Godutai Doddappa Appa Arts, Commerce and Science Degree College for Women, Kalaburagi, on “Studies on Glycolate Oxidase (GOX) Extraction and Inhibitory Activities of Musa sp. with Reference to Urolithiasis.” Her presentation focused on the extraction of glycolate oxidase and the potential therapeutic properties of Musa species in the management of kidney stone formation. The session was chaired by Dr. Rajasamarsen Modi and Dr. Nasreen Sultana served as the Rapporteur. Oral presentations continued from 4:20 PM to 6:00 PM, while poster presentations were conducted in a parallel session (Session IV) from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. The first day concluded with a cultural programme followed by dinner, providing an opportunity for participants to interact and network in an informal setting.