SHIMLA-14^th June, 2025-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated the 12^th International Conference organized by the Him Science Congress Association in collaboration with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE)-Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla, here today.

Addressing the inaugural session, the Governor urged young scientists to embrace the use of Artificial Intelligence while also preserving and integrating traditional knowledge systems. He emphasized that the true purpose of scientific research should be the welfare of humanity, not its destruction.

The Governor lauded the organizers for initiating thoughtful and futuristic discussions on critical topics like environmental conservation. He remarked that science and technology must align with local traditions, indigenous wisdom, and nature to be truly meaningful. “As we enter a new era of technology, it is crucial to link our rich heritage of knowledge with modern innovation. Conferences like this were a step in that direction,” he said.

“If we can inspire our younger generation to research and value our National legacy, India can play a decisive role in global well-being,” he added.

The Governor also expressed concern over rising pollution level in the hill state and said that such challenges can be addressed through traditional ecological wisdom. Citing the example of indigenous advancements, he stated that India’s fully indigenous BrahMos missile system is a testament to the importance of research in knowledge systems.

He expressed hope that scholars from diverse scientific disciplines would use this platform to present research outcomes that address contemporary issues related to innovation, sustainability, and societal needs. The Governor also spoke about the ill effects of drug abuse during his address.

On the occasion, the Governor released the official publication of the Him Science Congress Association and felicitated Kumari Osheen and Shaveen Chorta with the "Choffla Award."

Delivering the keynote address, former Chairman of the Punjab Pollution Control Board, Prof. Adarsh Pal Vig emphasized that economics and environment should go hand in hand in development models. He noted that while economics has received due attention, environmental protection has lagged behind, despite being a priority. “My environment, my responsibility” should be the guiding principle for every individual, he said. Prof. Vig also praised the Government of Himachal Pradesh for its initiative to ban plastic bottles in the State.

Dr. Sandeep Sharma, Director of the Himalayan Forest Research Institute welcomed the Governor.

Dr. Dileepbabu Vijayakumar, Scientist from DRDO Bengaluru, Prof. Bhuvnesh Gupta, Former Professor, IIT Delhi and Chief Patron of Him Science Congress Association and Prof. Deepak Pathania, President of the Association, also addressed the conference and shared insights on environmental issues.