NU hosts symposium on innovation and entrepreneurship for a sustainable future

The Department of Environmental Science at Nagaland University organized a one-day symposium titled “Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Environmental Science for a Sustainable Future” on March 18, 2025. The event, the first of its kind, aimed to inspire students and professionals to explore sustainable business opportunities and innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

The symposium was inaugurated in the presence of Prof JK Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, Registrar Dr Abemo, Dean of Sciences Prof MS Rawat, Prof MK Sinha, Dean of the School of Social Sciences, and Dr Kevezai Tureng, Director of CDC.

Prof Ashutosh Tripathi, Head of the Department of Environmental Science, emphasized the importance of the event and urged the audience to collaborate and share innovative ideas for entrepreneurial ventures.

Prof Patnaik praised the initiative, highlighting its role in fostering innovation and benefiting students. He also underscored Nagaland’s rich natural resources and encouraged students to pursue eco-friendly entrepreneurship, particularly by focusing on local sustainable products.

The first technical session, chaired by Prof Ambrish Singh from the Department of Chemistry and moderated by Dr Eliza Khwairakpam, featured talks by Dr Dhrubajyoti Bordoloi (Coordinator, Entrepreneurship Development Centre, Nagaland University), Dr Akumtoshi Longkumer (Founder, Sutsung Enterprise, Nagaland), and Peihauding Zeliang (Founder, Ngurie Organic, Nagaland).

The speakers discussed various aspects of entrepreneurship, including key business steps, incubation support, and startup opportunities in Northeast India. Dr Longkumer shared his experience in green entrepreneurship, while Mr Zeliang provided insights into turning a college project into a successful organic business.

The second session, chaired by Prof CR Deb, Director of IQAC, and moderated by Dr Pranjal Bharali, featured Bendangwala Walling (Founder, E-Circle, Nagaland), Garima Capoor Nanda (Co-Founder, Plantables, Agra), and Himanshu Tyagi (Water Resources Specialist, INRM Consultants). The speakers discussed topics such as e-waste management, eco-friendly wedding card startups, and sustainable water conservation.

The symposium concluded with a valedictory session led by Prof Rawat, who commended the event’s success. Dr Ashutosh Tripathi, Head of the Department of Environmental Science, proposed the vote of thanks, marking the end of the fruitful day dedicated to promoting sustainable entrepreneurship and innovation.

MT