Conference on The High Himalaya and Environmental Justice | 14th July at IIC

Tibet House, the Cultural Centre of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, New Delhi is pleased to announce a Conference on "The High Himalaya and Environmental Justice" on Sunday, 14th July, 2024 at the Multipurpose Hall, India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi.  Tibet House, the Cultural Centre of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, New Delhi continues to organize a series of Conferences on Ecology on a yearly basis.  His Holiness the Dalai Lama connects the profound environmental questions of the present age, to our complex and fundamental interconnectedness at various levels and our dependency on a single planet. This conference aims to bring together prominent Speakers from various institutions to present their portfolios on the subject concerning the immediate measures and development to challenge this global ecological crisis.  Hence, we are extremely delighted to invite you all to this conference and unlock a unique experience for oneself.  Date:   Sunday, 14th July 2024 Time:  09:30 AM - 05:30 PM (IST) Venue:  Multipurpose Hall, India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi To Register:  Click Here Programme Details:  Download Here *Note:  Registration is mandatory for all participants. Last date of registration: Saturday, 13th July 2024 at 01:00 PM (IST)

UNESCO designates 11 new biosphere reserves

PRESS RELEASE   UNESCO designates 11 new biosphere reserves   Paris, 5 July 2024 – UNESCO has approved the designation of 11 new biosphere reserves in 11 countries, including Belgium and Gambia for the first time and two transboundary biosphere reserves. The other new biosphere reserves are located in Colombia, Dominican Republic, Italy, Mongolia, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Slovenia and Spain. With these new biosphere reserves covering a total area of 37 400 km2, equivalent to the size of the Netherlands, the World Network of Biosphere Reserves now totals 759 sites in 136 countries.   "The new designations come at a pivotal moment for humanity, as it grapples with a global biodiversity crisis intertwined with climate disruption. At a time when the international community is being called upon to increase the number of protected areas, these new biosphere reserves play an essential role in sustainably preserving the biodiversity, improving the living conditions of local populations and Indigenous Peoples and fostering scientific research," said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.   These additions were decided during the 36th session of the International Co-ordinating Council, the governing body of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere programme, which is composed of 34 representatives of UNESCO Member States. The Council held its session in Agadir, Morocco, from 2 to 5 July following the UNESCO Conference on Soils. Biosphere reserves are an essential component of UNESCO's mandate as the United Nations' organisation for sciences. Each biosphere reserve promotes innovative local sustainable development solutions, protects biodiversity, and addresses climate disruption. They also support local and Indigenous communities through practices such as agro-ecology, water management, and the generation of green income.  Biosphere reserves contribute to helping achieve the targets set by States upon the adoption of the  Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in December 2022, which includes designating 30% of the Earth's land and marine surface as protected areas and restoring 30% of the planet's degraded ecosystems by 2030. The 11 newly designated biosphere reserves are: Kempen-Broek Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (Belgium, Kingdom of the Netherlands) Nestled within a picturesque expanse of low-lying terrain adorned with gently undulating sand covers, Kempen-Broek offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and human history. Once expansive wetlands have been transformed into farmlands since the 19th century but the area retains remnants of its marshes, punctuated by ponds, open marshlands and bog forests.  Renowned as one of Belgium's and the Netherlands' prime habitats for dragonflies, the region's stream valleys also feature meadows and fields, whereas the higher elevations are mostly used for agriculture. Towards the north, vast expanses of moorland and inland dunes preserve intriguing prehistoric sites. Scattered amidst this rich tapestry are villages and towns nestled on higher ground, while diverse bird species flourish across varied landscapes.  Spanning 264 km2, the biosphere reserve is home to approximately 75 000 people, with tourism and agriculture being its economic pillars. It is the first biosphere reserve to be designated in Belgium and is shared with the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Darién Norte Chocoano Biosphere Reserve (Colombia) Amidst the vibrant Darien ecoregion, within the Biogeographic Chocó, lies a biodiversity bridge connecting the fauna and flora of North and South America, with emblematic species like the majestic harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja) and the colourful poison dart frogs. Encompassing a sprawling mosaic of ecosystems ranging from lush tropical rainforests to marine areas along the Gulf of Urabá, it covers a vast territory spanning 3 016 km2, almost 40% of which consists in marine areas. The archeological park and museum are a tourist destination. They tell the story of how the region came to host one of the first Spanish settlements on the American continent, the town of Santa María La Antigua del Darién, founded in the early 16th century. The biosphere reserve has a diverse population of 24 287, predominantly composed of Indigenous Peoples and Afro-Colombian origins. The local communities were actively involved in submitting the proposal for designation to UNESCO, particularly young people and women. The management plans for the protected areas within the new biosphere reserve include adopting sustainable farming, enhancing the marketing chain for agricultural products and advancing the Community Ecotourism Plan. Madre de las Aguas Biosphere Reserve (Dominican Republic) In the heart of the Dominican Republic, Madre de las Aguas Biosphere Reserve is a sprawling expanse that encompasses 11 provinces and 35 municipalities, sheltering a population of 472 526 and spanning 9 374 km².  This territory is characterized by its diverse topography, which has been sculpted by the Cordillera Central. An array of natural wonders ranging from plateaus to cascading waterfalls form an intricate tapestry of landscapes. This biosphere reserve features four distinct ecosystems which harbour 88 avian species, 20 of which are endemic and 17 under threat. The Sparrowhawk (Buteo ridgwayi) is deemed to be Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, for instance. Local stakeholders believe that the designation of the biosphere reserve will have a positive impact on current conflicts over land by providing opportunities for dialogue and sustainable development through ecotourism and agriculture primarily.  Niumi Biosphere Reserve (Gambia) Stretching along the north bank of the Gambia River, the biosphere reserve lies adjacent to Senegal's Delta de Saloum Biosphere Reserve in the north. Within its boundaries, mangroves dominate the coastal areas and riverbanks, whereas, downstream, striking red limestone formations punctuate tropical forests and open savannah woodland.  The biosphere reserve safeguards some of West Africa's last pristine mangrove forests, alongside the Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve and various State forests. Notably, the biosphere reserve encompasses a Ramsar wetland and the UNESCO World Heritage site Kunta Kinteh Island, historically known as a place where enslaved peoples were held before being transported to the Americas during the 16th and 17th centuries. With a sprawling expanse of 1 937 km2, the biosphere reserves is home to approximately 178 000 inhabitants, who make a living mostly with farming and fisheries. It is the first biosphere reserve to be designated in The Gambia. Colli Euganei Biosphere Reserve (Italy) This picturesque landscape in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy is defined by no fewer than 81 volcanic hills, including the towering Monte Venda which rises amidst thermal spas and verdant plains adorned with olive groves and vineyards.  Spanning 15 municipalities, the area is rich in both natural and cultural heritage. The region's volcanic history and thermal waters contribute to its allure, making it the largest thermal basin in Europe. With a total area of 341 km2, the biosphere reserve hosts a population of 111 368.  Endowed with a diverse array of flora and fauna endemic to the Veneto plain, the biosphere reserve has established partnerships with universities and a comprehensive management framework. The Euganean Hills (Colli Euganei) are of volcanic origin. This region is fostering sustainable agriculture and ecotourism while ensuring participatory governance, in order to lay the groundwork for a harmonious coexistence between human economic activities and environmental preservation. Julian Alps Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (Italy, Slovenia) This transboundary biosphere reserve is the result of the merger of two Slovenian and Italian biosphere reserves which had been designated in 2003 and 2019, respectively. The transboundary biosphere reserve spans 2 671 km2, encompassing core areas of 735 km2, buffer zones spanning 438 km2 and transition areas totalling 1 497 km2 which are home to 109 060 inhabitants across 20 municipalities.  The area boasts a patchwork of alpine mountains and karst plateaux dotted by waterfalls and pristine lakes. The rich biodiversity includes brown bears, lynxes, otters and wildcats. The nomination of this transboundary site was meticulously crafted through a participatory planning process involving 176 institutions and organizations from both countries, as well as students, research groups and representatives of the tourism industry. Khar Us Lake Biosphere Reserve (Mongolia) Situated in the expansive western expanse of Mongolia, Khar Us Lake Biosphere Reserve occupies a vast depression within the Great Lake basin spanning 14 153 km2 in the Khovd Province. Its diverse ecosystems encompass aquatic realms, deserts, high mountain terrain and steppe landscapes, each contributing to the region's ecological richness.  The biosphere reserve has a core area of 703 km2, a buffer zone of 7 800 km2 and a transition area of 5 650 km2. The biosphere reserve is governed by Mongolian national legislation, ensuring a balance between nature conservation and sustainable development. The biosphere reserve is not only a haven for rare and endangered species but also for cultural heritage, as it is home to diverse ethnic groups whose livelihoods revolve around a sustainable form of animal husbandry.  Efforts are under way to develop sustainable ecotourism, aligning with Khovd Province's focus on heritage-based tourism for economic diversification. Local herders have formed community-based organisations to safeguard their pasturelands and wildlife, highlighting their dedication to conservation and sustainable livelihoods. yApayaos Biosphere Reserve (Philippines) This biosphere reserve in the Province of Apayao is divided into two distinct regions: the Upper Apayao sports rugged terrain with towering peaks, plateaus and valleys, whereas the Lower Apayao features flatlands adorned with rolling hills and plateaus. Stretching 180 km, the majestic Apayao River serves as a vital watershed, nurturing 18 tributaries across the province.  yApayaos is a name that encompasses both the people and diverse flora and fauna living in the area. There are various ethnolinguistic groups and ten Indigenous Cultural Communities whose traditions and laws are deeply intertwined with the land and its resources. Notably, the Isnag/Isneg community constitutes 30 percent of the population; it upholds the Lapat system, a unique customary practice regulating the use of natural resources and protection of the environment.  Recognized for its ecological significance, Apayao harbors the Apayao Lowland Forest Key Biodiversity Area, which has high levels of endemism and serves as a refuge for critically endangered species like the Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi).  The population of 124 366 engages primarily in rice and corn cultivation. However, ecotourism is progressing in the province. The biosphere reserve spans 3 960 km². Changnyeong Biosphere Reserve (Republic of Korea) Located in the central northern region of Gyeongsangnam-do Province, Changnyeong Biosphere Reserve forms a tapestry of biodiversity and cultural heritage. Encompassing habitats ranging from the lush forests of Mount Hwawang to the sprawling Upo Wetland and agricultural croplands, the region's diverse landscapes spans 531 km2. It serves as a sanctuary for several species, nurturing a delicate balance between freshwater ecosystems, forests teeming with life and sustainable agriculture. Notably, Upo Wetland stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts, exemplified by the restoration of the endangered crested ibis (Nipponia nippon) since 2008. Changnyeong-gun County was recognized as a Ramsar Wetland City in 2018. With a majority of the population residing in the transition area and buffer zone, the region is pioneering agricultural diversification by cultivating local specialties like onions and garlic alongside ecotourism ventures.  Val d'Aran Biosphere Reserve (Spain) Nestled at the western frontier of the Catalan Pyrenees, the biosphere reserve spans approximately 632 km2, serving as Catalonia's sole north-facing valley. Its unique position as a watershed between the Mediterranean and Atlantic realms means that it features diverse climatic and biological landscapes. It is also a bastion of Occitan cultural and linguistic heritage.  Home to 9 983 inhabitants, the Val d'Aran has historically thrived on activities ranging from agriculture and crafts to trade. Lately, the re-introduction of brown bears has raised concerns among local livestock farmers. The designation of the area as a biosphere reserve has been a pivotal step towards improving biodiversity protection and revitalizing traditional practices, in order to halt depopulation and transition to a more resilient rural development model. The biosphere reserve's management plan has been meticulously designed with village representatives from local associations promoting tourism and animal husbandry. Irati Biosphere Reserve (Spain) Irati Biosphere Reserve is located within the mid-mountain expanse of the western Pyrenees. A haven for biodiversity, its expansive forests are dominated by beech and beech-fir, making it the second-largest beech forest in Europe. Encompassing the picturesque valleys of Salazar and Aezkoa in the northeastern reaches of Navarre, it spans 537 km2 and is home to 2 435 inhabitants.  Actively engaged in the nomination process since 2015, the local community has played a pivotal role in shaping the management structure of the biosphere reserve. This structure includes an executive board and advisory board representing diverse stakeholders, ranging from cultural and conservation associations to women's groups. The Irati Biosphere Reserve's management plan stands as a testament to the biosphere reserve's community-driven conservation efforts.   About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.   "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed" – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contact François Wibaux, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0)145 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

If you would rather not receive future communications from UNESCO, let us know by clicking here.
UNESCO, 7, place de Fontenoy, PARIS, NA FRANCE France

UNESCO raises global alarm on the rapid degradation of soils

PRESS RELEASE   UNESCO raises global alarm on the rapid degradation of soils   Agadir/Paris, 1 July 2024 – UNESCO is warning that 90% of the planet's land surface could be degraded by 2050, with major risks for biodiversity and human life. At an international conference in Agadir (Morocco), Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, appealed to the Organization's 194 Member States to improve soil protection and rehabilitation. UNESCO is also undertaking a number of actions to fill the scientific knowledge gaps in this field.   "Soil plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth. Yet it is still often neglected or poorly managed. UNESCO is calling on the international community to make this a priority. With sixty years of experience in soil science, our Organization will help States to advance knowledge and train professionals so that the necessary measures can be taken", announced Audrey Azoulay at the UNESCO International Conference on Soils, which is being held today.   Healthy soils are essential for maintaining ecosystems and biodiversity, regulating the climate, producing food and purifying water. However, according to the World Atlas of Desertification, 75% of them are already degraded, directly impacting 3.2 billion people. And if current trends continue, this proportion will rise to 90% by 2050.   Against this worrying backdrop, UNESCO and the Kingdom of Morocco's National Agency for the Development of Oasis and Argan Zones (ANDZOA) organized the international conference on soil on Monday 1er July in Agadir, bringing together experts and representatives from over thirty countries. The discussions have led to an action plan based on three key objectives: improving soil protection and rehabilitation, filling the scientific knowledge gaps in this field, and strengthening the commitment of young people and communities through education and training programmes.   A soil health index and a pilot programme   UNESCO will support its Member States by establishing a "world soil health index" in coordination with its international partners. This index will be a standardized measure for assessing and comparing soil quality across different regions and ecosystems. It will allow the identification of trends showing degradation or improvement, reveal which areas are most at risk, and enable better understanding the effectiveness of soil management practices.   In addition to this index, UNESCO will launch a pilot initiative for the sustainable management of soils and landscapes in around ten natural sites that it helps to protect under its Biosphere Reserves programme. The goal will be twofold: to assess the effectiveness of the management methods implemented in these sites, and to work to ensure that the best of these methods can be deployed in other regions of the world.   Site managers will be encouraged to develop innovative soil conservation and land management projects. Training will be provided for them, as well as for members of government agencies, conservation organizations and indigenous communities, to give them as many tools as possible to protect this essential resource. This initiative will also include an educational component through which UNESCO will raise awareness and involve the younger generations.   More information UNESCO's International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme Natural World Heritage of UNESCO About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.   "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed" – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contacts François WIBAUX, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0)145 68 07 46 Romain PARLIER, r.parlier@unesco.org, +33 (0)1 45 68 15 24   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

If you would rather not receive future communications from UNESCO, let us know by clicking here.
UNESCO, 7, place de Fontenoy, PARIS, NA FRANCE France

Webinar on Making India a Top 3 S&T Nation: Building a Virtuous Institute Industry Ecosystem Cycle | 1 July, 5:30 PM IST

Making India a Top 3 S&T Nation: Building a Virtuous Institute Industry Ecosystem Cycle

Date & Time: July 1, 2024 05:30 PM IST

Register

Description: India is making remarkable strides in science, technology, and innovation, positioning itself as a formidable player on the global stage. This panel will explore the strategies and programs necessary to propel India's innovation ecosystem into the global top three, a crucial step for ensuring our nation's competitiveness in the 21st century. Key discussion points will include strategic collaborations to build a virtuous Institute Industry ecosystem cycle that fosters innovation and supports research and development. By bringing together leaders from institutions and industry sectors, this panel aims to chart a clear path forward for India to become a global leader in science and technology.

Panelists:
- Prof. V Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani
- Dr. Vijay Chandru, Co-Founder, Strand Life Sciences
- Dr. Thomas Barlow, Strategic Advisor, Barlow Advisory
- Subhra Priyadarshini, Chief Editor, Nature India
- Varun Aggarwal, Co-Founder, FAST India (Moderator)
 
Join us as we delve into the collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives required to achieve this ambitious goal.

New Book "The Indian Science Community: Historical and Sociological Studies" by VV Krishna

The Indian Science Community: Historical and Sociological Studies

By Venni V. Krishna, Routledge India, 2024, ISBN 9781032604442. 

 

Description: This book focuses on the historical and sociological dimensions of scientists working in laboratories in India, offering insights into the historical, sociological, and policy factors that shape scientific pursuits. It illuminates the challenges, accomplishments, and the evolving role of science in societal development. The author initiates a broader discourse on the interplay between scientific advancements, societal contexts, and policy frameworks. The book fosters a deeper understanding of science's role in shaping India's social fabric and contributing to the global scientific dialogue. It also explores issues such as brain drain, science activism, and the conflict between university- and government-run models of science. Lucid and topical, the book will be of considerable interest to both social and natural scientists, as well as the general academic community, including research students in science, technology, history, social history of science, science and technology studies, and innovation policies.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction: Science and Society in Historical and Social Contexts 

Chapter 2: The Emergence of Indian Science Community: 1876-1940s 

Chapter 3: The Early History of CSIR 1934-1947: Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar and Organization of Science 

Chapter 4: Post-War Organization of Science: Role of National Planning Committee and A.V. Hill Report, 1938-47 

Chapter 5: Science and Technology Policy Cultures: Four Phases of S&T for Development 

Chapter 6: Gandhi and Subaltern Science: Rise of Appropriate Technology and Inclusive Innovation in Contemporary India 

Chapter 7: Science Activism in India: Peoples and Alternative Science Movements 

Chapter 8: Mediating Role of Scientific Elite: Science, Politics and Society 

Chapter 9: Social Organization of Science: Contours of Indian Research Landscape 

Chapter 10: Universities in India's Science and Innovation System 

Chapter 11: Changing Social Contract between Science and Society: Contemporary Challenges

Call for application in the upcoming CODATA-RDA School for Research Data Science at ICTP, Trieste (Italy)

Call for application in the upcoming CODATA-RDA School for Research Data Science at ICTP, Trieste (Italy)

Registration deadline: 24 June 2024

This activity focuses on building a range of data-related skills that are vital for addressing trans-disciplinary challenges in contemporary research work.

The Summer School builds competence in data analysis and security for participants from all disciplines and/ or backgrounds from sciences to humanities. Topics to be covered include principles and practice of research data management, authorship in the 21st century, data curation, data security, Open Science, visualization, machine learning and artificial neural networks.

The activity includes practical hands-on sessions on techniques and applications for large-scale data handling, analysis, visualization and modeling on a variety of compute infrastructure including high performance computer platforms/systems.

Important information:
E-mail: smr3962@ictp.it
Web: https://lnkd.in/dXv7mP9W
Female scientists are encouraged to apply.
Summer school dates are from 12 Aug 2024 to 23 Aug 2024

Grants: 
A limited number of grants are available to support the attendance of selected participants, with priority given to participants from developing countries.

There is no registration fee.

Download the Flyer

Thanks,

Asha

--

___________________________

WorldFAIR Completion: reflections, expression of thanks, key outputs, and next steps

The Cross-Domain Interoperability Framework (CDIF)

WorldFAIR Policy Recommendations

May 2023 publications in the CODATA Data Science Journal

Stay in touch with CODATA:

Stay up to date with CODATA activities: join the CODATA International News list

Looking for training and career opportunities in data science and data stewardship?  Sign up to the CODATA early career community-run data science training and careers list

Follow us on social media! Twitter - Facebook - LinkedIn - Instagram

__________________________

Asha Law | Program Assistant, CODATA | http://www.codata.org

E-Mail: asha[@]codata.org

CODATA (Committee on Data of the International Science Council), 5 rue Auguste Vacquerie, 75016 Paris, FRANCE

_______________________________________________

CfPs: Globelics-IndiaLICS Conference on Innovation Systems in Transforming India: Context, Concerns and Strategy | 20-21 September, Bhubaneswar

Globelics-IndiaLICS International Conference on Innovation Systems in Transforming India: Context, Concerns and Strategy

September 20-21, 2024 (Friday-Saturday)

Hosts: KIIT Bhubaneswar & Bhubaneswar City Knowledge Innovation Cluster, Odisha, India

Venue: Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

https://indialicsconference.com 

Call for Papers & Research Proposals 
Indian growth story is world-wide discussed and is being recognized as a 'bright spot' in the world economy and a key contributor to global growth in coming years. However, there are grand challenges India must overcome to transition from a low middle income country to an advanced economy. Innovation and technological progress have played a significant role in this transition of the various industrial advanced and newly industrialized economies of the world. Increasing realizations over perspectives and role of innovations – including but beyond the technological – in impacting economies and societies at the macro, policies to address broad issues on innovation, aspects of local and sub-national dynamics are yet to receive due attention, especially in the absence of comprehensive statistics on innovation and related dimensions. Further, innovation potential of subsectors, regions, and resources (both physical and knowledge-based) has been poorly articulated as we have limited understanding of interrelationships between diverse stakeholders of science, social-economy and democracy. A common concern is 'over innovative governance' of access and use of resources (particularly, natural) to ensure broad basing of sustainable production, consumption and conservation. It also calls for looking more closely at the various successful initiatives that have led to emergence of new models and actors such as innovation clusters, TBIs, Startups and whether they have been able to bring a more inclusive governance framework.
IndiaLICS is the India chapter of Globelics, an international network of scholars who apply the concept of Learning, Innovation and Competence building System (LICS) as a framework for promoting inclusive and sustainable development in developing countries, emerging economies, and societies in transition. IndiaLICS engages in and pro-actively promotes domestic and global exchange of scholarship in innovation systems and the translation of innovation to development outcomes. It organizes seminars/conferences and undertakes capacity building activities as well as research with academics, policy makers, entrepreneurs and workers. For details, please visit: https://indialicsconference.com/
The Conference aims to be multidisciplinary in its approach by including scholars, practitioners, policy makers and development/civil society organizations. It would also showcase startups across various sectors and regions including from the rural economy. Although the focus is on India, lessons from other developing and developed countries shall be discussed in a comparative perspective. Papers shall be invited for presentation at the Conference and peer reviewed before acceptance. The Conference also invites papers on case studies of innovation clusters, technology business incubators, startups, etc. The Conference intends to bring out edited books through reputed publishers and special journal issues from selected papers presented.
Pertinent/Suggestive Themes by Broad Intersectional Categories:

• National Level:
• Innovation system in comparative perspective
• Innovation, trade and development
• Comprehensive database and indicators of innovation
• Industry 4.0 technologies and Indian Innovation system
• IPRs, standards & regulations
• Foresights and futures for technology
• Skills, knowledge and learning – gaps and solutions
• Innovation activity and firm size in the context of changing technology regimes and market structures
• Innovation and entrepreneurship in universities
• Regional/Sub-national Level:
• Global production networks and governance of value chains
• Enterprise-academia-state-society interlinkages
• State and STI
• Regional Innovation system of India - assessment and challenges
• Regional Innovation clusters
• Sectoral/Sub-sectoral Level:
• Skills, knowledge gaps in traditional and modern sectors
• Innovations in agriculture, forestry, livestock and fisheries
• Informal sector and innovation (both rural and urban contexts)
• Innovation in services and business model innovation
• Innovations in social sectors (education, health and water)
• Overarching Concerns:
• Science, technology and innovation links
• Climate change and protecting the environment.
• Gender and innovation
• Inclusive and responsible innovation
• Grassroot innovation
• Frugal innovation and public policy
• Creating and scaling deep tech startups

These are indicative themes only. Papers beyond these themes shall also be considered. Around 50-60 research papers are expected to be shortlisted for the Conference presentation. Certificates of participation shall be presented. The host institution shall take care of travel, boarding and conference organization as per the availability of financial support. The participants are encouraged to search for financial support from their own institutional or other funding agencies.

Important Dates:

• Submission of extended abstracts or research proposals by July 20, 2024.
• Information on acceptance/rejection of abstracts/proposals by July 30, 2024.
• Submission of full papers by August 30, 2024.
• Conference dates: September 20-21, 2024.

Format for Extended Abstract/Research Proposal:
The abstract/proposal (around 1000 words) must be new (neither published nor being submitted/considered for publication elsewhere) and should preferably be organised around the following subsections: (a) Central concerns (b) Methodology/Approach (c) Main findings (d) Policy implications (e) Originality/Value (f) Keywords (up to 5). Papers by young scholars are particularly encouraged.

Communications: All submissions and correspondences must be emailed to: indialics.kiit[@]gmail.com. Contact person: Keshab Das (Mobile: 9427527884. Email: keshabdas[@]gmail.com)

Further Details 

JNU-ABVSME Online FDP on "Exploring Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence" | 17-21 June

JNU-ABVSME organises Online Faculty Development Program on "Exploring Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence"

17-21 June 2024 | Brochure

Webinar on Working of Patents in India: Opportunities and Challenges | 7 June at 1600 IST

Click here to REGISTER   Meeting ID: 823 5046 0270 Passcode: 2024060

Abstract: This paper focuses on patents that are commercially worked or not based on novel dataset on working of patents from Indian patent office. The information based on Form 27, mandated by section-146 of the India patents act, is collated from the patent office website. In contrast to the USA, Europe, and Japan where more than 50% of patents are used, we find that only 24% of patents are worked in India. We find that electrical patents are most likely to work among different technology domains. The patents granted to academic institutions and government research organizations have indeed very low probability of use. Overall, among the various reasons for non working of patents, we identify the lack of licensing opportunities and low market demand are the most prominent.

Nagesh Kumar, PhD Director https://isid.org.in | nkumar@isid.org.in | director@isid.org.in