Young scientists shared their innovative ideas in a range of thematic areas in the five days Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Young Scientist Conclave which concluded recently. The areas included agriculture and food processing; sustainable energy and energy storage; biotechnology and bioengineering; combating COVID-19 and emerging pandemics through research and innovation; environmental protection and natural resource management,

22 young scientists were given certificates of appreciation for their innovative research work and ideas on which they would like to work in collaboration with SCO countries

Minister for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, Health, and Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan, who inaugurated the conclave, called upon all the ignited young minds from SCO member states to use science as a tool to improve the quality of life of the common man which is the biggest challenge of this millennium. He exhorted the astute scientists at the 1st SCO Young Scientist Conclave to 'Innovate, Patent, Produce & Prosper' to lead our countries towards faster development.

The conclave enabled the confluence of ideas among the SCO scientific fraternity and paved the way for the establishment of a network across the Member States. It also projected the opportunities for joint proposals with STI prospects within the framework of SCO partners for future collaboration. A roadmap for networking and collaboration in these areas was prepared with provisions for exchange of young scientists across the SCO member states. The uniqueness of the conclave lay in bringing young minds together to promote international student exchange for knowledge and technology transfer. It witnessed overwhelming participation from SCO nations.

The conclave organized on virtual mode due to the pandemic wasaimed to bring young researchers at a common platform and encourage the youth to harness their knowledge for addressing common societal challenges through research and innovation and strengthening advancement of complementary skills and research competencies of youth. The conclave was attended by about 200 participants, including 67 young scientists & students nominated from SCO member states.

Dr S.K Varshney, Advisor & Head International Cooperation, informed that the SCO STI Framework program for supporting multi-disciplinary R&D projects in multilateral format is at finalization stage. He suggested that SCO member states may consider creating a fellowship program for young scientists, which will allow exchange of students and early career researchers among SCO nations.

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NB/KGS/(DST Media Cell)