HT Correspondent
HOJAI, Feb 14: Rabindranath Tagore University (RTU), Hojai, successfully organised a two-day National Conference on “Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis and Other Bacterial Infections” on February 13 and 14, 2026, at its Sir J C Bose Campus. The event was a collaborative initiative between RTU and Assam University, sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
The conference witnessed wide participation from across the country, with delegates representing premier institutions such as Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Banaras Hindu University, Vellore Institute of Technology, University of North Bengal, North-Eastern Hill University, Dibrugarh University and Silchar Medical College and Hospital.
Aligned with the National Mission of TB-Free India envisioned by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the conference provided a platform for intensive academic exchange and research collaboration. A total of 10 invited lectures and 53 scientific papers were presented, covering diverse aspects of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and other bacterial infections. Contributions came from scholars and researchers representing 11 different states of India.
The inaugural session was graced by Prof Rajive Mohan Pant as the Chief Guest, while Prof Binoy Kr Saikia, a Bhatnagar Awardee, attended as the Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries emphasised the need for collaborative research and innovative strategies to address the growing challenge of drug-resistant infections. The presidential address was delivered by Prof Manabendra Dutta Choudhury, Vice Chancellor of RTU, according to a press release issued by Dr N I Barbhuyan. The inaugural ceremony included the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, an inaugural song, formal felicitation of the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and other distinguished dignitaries and the rendition of the university anthem, state anthem and national anthem, along with other cultural presentations.
Technical sessions were held separately, during which delegates presented their research findings and scientific papers. Participants appreciated the university’s initiative in organising the conference and highlighted its importance in strengthening research collaboration. Delegates also visited local tourist attractions, including the waterfalls of Kanti Langchoo, Koka and Bhelughat, as well as Kaziranga National Park, among other notable sites.
The Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the National Seminar expressed gratitude to all delegates, their respective institutions, sponsoring departments and agencies, as well as the faculty members, administrators, officers and staff of the university for their cooperation in fostering a vibrant research and academic ecosystem on the campus. The conference concluded with a vibrant cultural programme, reflecting the university’s commitment to blending academic excellence with cultural enrichment.






