By: Smita Bhattacharyya
JORHAT, Sept 2: The CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology (CSIR-NEIST), in collaboration with the Dr J N Baruah Memorial Trust and the Assam Science Society, Jorhat Branch, organised the 31st Dr J N Baruah Memorial Lecture with participation from dignitaries, scientists, academicians and students.
Delivering the Memorial Lecture as chief guest, Dr Sanjay Kumar, FNA, Chairman, Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board, stressed the importance of developing a bio-resource based economy in the North Eastern Region.
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He said the resource-rich region can harness science and technology to address economic challenges and malnutrition.
Highlighting innovations such as dry toilets, value-added tea products, ready-to-eat food items, and initiatives like the Aroma Mission and Floriculture Mission, Dr Kumar said these efforts have empowered farmers and entrepreneurs.
The programme was attended by Dr Nitin Kulkarni, Director, Rain Forest Research Institute, and Dr Jaideep Baruah, Director, Assam Science Technology & Environment Council, as guests of honour.
Recollecting his experience working under the supervision of Late Dr J N Baruah on the Tea Liquor Project, Dr Jaideep Baruah shared insights into the contributions of Assam Science Technology & Environment Council.
Dr Kulkarni, in his address, emphasised entrepreneurship and start-ups to tackle shrinking job opportunities, and appreciated the progress made by North Eastern states, particularly Nagaland, in implementing sustainable development goals.
In his address, Dr Bichitra Barthakur, president, Assam Science Society, Jorhat Branch, paid tribute to Late Dr Baruah, recalling his contributions as a scientist, researcher, environmentalist, professor and former Director of CSIR-NEIST.
Following the ceremonial lamp lighting, CSIR-NEIST Director Dr V M Tiwari highlighted Dr Baruah’s pioneering role in promoting science and technology in Assam and raising Indian scientific research to international standards despite limited resources.
Assam Science Society, Jorhat Branch secretary Romen Gogoi traced the society’s journey and its work in popularising science, while also highlighting the objectives of the Dr J N Baruah Memorial Trust in inspiring society towards scientific pursuits.
On an emotional note, Dr Manashi Baruah, daughter of Late Dr J N Baruah, expressed gratitude to the organisers and participants for keeping the legacy alive.
The highlight of the event was the release of the Assamese book Bharatiya Jibonir Jibon Aru Avadaan authored by Dr Dipali Khargharia, documenting the lives and contributions of Indian scientists.
The Late Dr J N Baruah Student Scholarship was awarded to Koustov Moni Borborah of Arunoday Academy, Amguri, for his meritorious performance in the HSLC examination 2025.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Himangsu Kousik Bora.
The event was coordinated by Dr Lakshi Saikia, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEIST, and Secretary, Dr J N Baruah Memorial Trust.
It may be mentioned that the Dr J N Baruah Memorial Lecture is held annually in honour of Late Dr J N Baruah, former Director of CSIR-NEIST, renowned for his contribution to science and its popularisation in Assam.
