The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, marked its 84th Foundation Day on 2 December 2024 with fervour, commemorating its legacy since its establishment as the Drug Research Laboratory by Ram Nath Chopra in pre-independence India. Dr Manoj Kumar Dhar, Director Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) Ghaziabad and ex-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jammu, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. He delivered the Foundation Day lecture on “Creating an Ecosystem to Produce NextGen Science Leaders”, wherein he delved into various opportunities available to the budding young science leaders, as well as the requirement for grooming and mentorship to rise up to the challenges to become leaders of the Viksit Bharat 2047. Dr Nirpendra Chauhan, Director, Centre for Aromatic Plants, Dehradun, was the Guest of Honour. In his address, he dealt with the advancement of MAPs cultivation and opportunities for collaboration between both institutions.
Director CSIR-IIIM, Dr Zabeer Ahmed, highlighted the Institute’s achievements over the past year, including an increase in patent outputs, hosting significant conferences, and organising a Start-up Expo inaugurated by India’s Vice President. Certificates of recognition were presented for notable research accomplishments, including patents in drug discovery and process innovation for combating diseases like Alzheimer’s, cancer, and viral infections.
The event also honoured contributions to institutional repositories and administrative work in Hindi. A blood donation camp was organised to mark National Voluntary Blood Donation Day, recognising over 30 donors by the chief guest and other dignitaries. Sports competitions like cricket, volleyball, and badminton engaged staff and students, with winners awarded trophies and certificates. Musical chairs and tug-of-war added to the festivities, making the event inclusive and spirited. The celebrations concluded under the guidance of Dr Zabeer Ahmed, with the proceedings led by Dr Deepika Singh (Principal Scientist and Head, QMI) and a vote of thanks by Abdul Rahim (Chief Scientist and Head, RMBD&IST).
