Mysore/Mysuru: A one-day National Conference on ‘Current Research and Innovations in Chemical Sciences-2026’ (CRICS-2026) was organised by the Department of Chemistry, JSS College for Women (Autonomous), Saraswathipuram, Mysuru, recently.

In his keynote address, Prof. K.S. Rangappa, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Mysore, opined that nation’s progress and security can only be achieved through research and innovation.

Strongly emphasising that scientific research is not a luxury but an absolute necessity, Prof. Rangappa urged that research should become a habit and called for stronger academic-                                              industrial collaboration.

He described chemical sciences as the backbone of innovation and noted that science involves not only obtaining results but also deeply understanding problems. He advised young researchers to persevere in their efforts to  succeed in life.

Prof. K. Mantelingu, Director, College Development Council, University of Mysore, who was the chief guest, observed that the conference would foster  scientific thinking. He highlighted the importance of green and eco-friendly energy sources in the future and stressed the role of innovation and research in addressing societal  challenges.

Dr. Prashanth M. Vishwanath, Dean (Research), JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, described Chemistry as the heart of discovery. Pointing out numerous future opportunities for Chemistry students, he encouraged students to cultivate curiosity and engage in research.

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) is opening new avenues for innovations in the field, he added.

Dr. Rechanna, Principal and Dr. E. Vijay Shekar, Head, Department of Post Graduate Chemistry, were present.

Disha D. Rao and group rendered the invocation. D.Y. Trupthi welcomed. R. Deeksha proposed the vote of thanks. S. Aparanji compered the event.

The inauguration was followed by three technical sessions and a paper presentation session.

The first technical session was delivered by Dr. Bishwajit Paul, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry,  Bangalore University, Bengaluru.

The second technical session was delivered by Dr. B. Mahesh, Professor of Chemistry and Dean – Research, JSS Academy of Technical  Education, Bengaluru.

The third technical session was delivered by Dr. Basappa, Chairperson, DoS in Organic Chemistry, University of Mysore. The sessions were chaired by Prof. K. Ajay Kumar, Department of Chemistry, Yuvaraja’s College, Mysuru.