Report on

3^rd International Conference on  

“Innovation in Science and Technology for Sustainable Development 3. O (ISTSD 3. O - 2026)”

Date of event: 12^th March – 14^th March 2026 (Hybrid Mode)

Organized by: Maharishi School of Sciences & Maharishi School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MUIT Lucknow campus), in association with National Environmental Science Academy (NESA), New Delhi, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, International Strategic Centre for Agri-Food Development, Uzbekistan, Glorious Vision University, Nigeria, West Africa, in association with IQAC

 

Objective: The 3rd International Conference on “Innovation in Science and Technology for Sustainable Development 3.0” (ISTSD 3.0–2026) was organized by Maharishi School of Sciences & Maharishi School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, (MUIT Lucknow campus) in collaboration with National Environmental Science Academy (NESA), New Delhi Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka International Strategic Centre for Agri-Food Development, Uzbekistan Glorious Vision University, Nigeria, West Africa, in association with IQAC,  from 12^th to 14^th March, 2026 to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance understanding of the role of science and technology in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring a resilient and sustainable future.

Participants: ISTSD 3.0–2026 witnessed the active participation of more than 280 delegates from diverse academic, research, and professional backgrounds from India and abroad. The conference featured extensive representation from leading universities and institutes in India and abroad, including the University of Lucknow, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Amity University (Lucknow Campus), Shoolini University (Himachal Pradesh), Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Delhi Technological University, Integral University, Aligarh Muslim University, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (Lucknow), King George’s Medical University (Lucknow), CSIR–National Botanical Research Institute (Lucknow), and several other prominent institutions. Participants from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Sikkim, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.

Event Details: The conference commenced with participant registration, during which delegates from various institutions completed the formalities and received conference kits. This initial session also provided an opportunity for attendees to interact, network, and familiarise themselves with the event schedule.

The inaugural session commenced with the welcome of the Chief Guest, Prof. Mukesh Pandey (Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi) and the Guest of Honour, Dr. Uttam Kumar Sarkar (Former Director, ICAR-NBFGR, Lucknow), along with other distinguished dignitaries, including Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava (Hon’ble Chancellor, MUIT, Lucknow), Prof. (Group Capt.) O. P. Sharma (Hon’ble Director General, MUIT, Lucknow), Prof. B. P. Singh (Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, MUIT, Lucknow), Prof. R.G.U. Jayalal (Dean, Department of Natural Resources, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka) and Prof. Altaf Ahmed (President, NESA, New Delhi), as well as Dean Academics, Deans, Deputy Deans, and faculty members, by Dr. Nidhi Srivastava (Convener), followed by traditional Guru Pujan and Saraswati Vandana. Dr. Sneha Verma (Convener) presented the overview and objectives of the conference, highlighting the significance of scientific innovation and collaborative research in achieving sustainable development goals. The opening remark was delivered by Dr. Neeraj Jain (Dean Academics, MUIT, Lucknow), who emphasized the importance of research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing environmental and technological challenges. The dignitaries were felicitated as a mark of honour.

The ceremony was addressed by the distinguished dignitaries that enriched the event. Hon’ble Chancellor, Shri Ajay Praksah Shrivastava), in his address underscored the pivotal role of scientific and technological advancements in driving economic development, fostering innovation, promoting industrial growth, and ensuring sustainable national progress. Address by the Guest of Honour (Dr. Uttam Kumar Sarkar), was insightful and motivational inscribing the role of innovation in biodiversity conservation and resource management while the Chief Guest (Prof. Mukesh Pandey) addressed the gathering emphasizing the importance of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovation and collaborative scientific research.

The conference proceedings were formally released during the session, marking the dissemination of scholarly contributions and research insights presented at the event. The concluding remarks and vote of thanks was given by Dr. Nishant Kumar (Dean, MSOS).

Following the inaugural session, the conference proceeded with plenary and keynote lectures by distinguished experts, including Dr. Maulin P. Shah (Adjunct Faculty, Department of Research Impact and Outcome Research, R & D cell, Lovely Professional University, Punjab), Dr. Ankit Kumar Oza (Adjunct Faculty, University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Punjab), and Dr. Bharat Mishra (Professor, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow). During these sessions, Dr. Oza emphasized the use of artificial intelligence tools to enhance the structure, clarity, and overall quality of research manuscripts, while Dr. Shah elaborated on sustainable strategies and advanced technological interventions for the efficient treatment of industrial wastewater. Dr. Mishra, in his keynote address, highlighted the significance of metabolic alterations and immune suppression as potential biomarkers for evaluating the impact of environmental pollutants. The plenary/ keynote session was proceeded by technical oral presentations (20) session by the participants.

Day 2:

The second day of the conference, featured plenary and keynote talks, as well as technical oral presentations across the conference's different themes. An engaging Plenary Talk was delivered by Dr. Rajesh Sani (Director of the MASON (Multiomics and Synthetic Biology Centre), South Dakota Mines in Rapid City, South Dakota) wherein he emphasized cutting-edge advances in multi-omics and synthetic biology, highlighting their interdisciplinary applications in modern scientific research. This was followed by a Keynote Address by Dr. V. P. Sharma (Chief Scientist and Professor, AcSIR, CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow). He provided valuable insights into toxicological research and its implications for environmental and human health. The session continued with Oral Presentations (20 presentations), where researchers presented their findings, fostering academic exchange and collaborative discussions among participants. 

Post-lunch, the conference resumed with a Keynote Address by Dr. Bhupendra Prajapati (Professor in the Research Cadre, Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara). His address focused on emerging trends and innovations in pharmaceutical sciences and research methodologies. Subsequently, Oral Presentations (98 nos.) and Poster Presentations (45 nos.) were conducted, providing a platform for young researchers and scholars to showcase their work. The day concluded with another Keynote Address by Dr. Sikandar J Mulla (Associate Professor and Head, Department of Biochemistry, School of Allied Health Sciences, REVA University, Bengaluru). He elaborated on recent developments in biochemistry and their applications in healthcare and disease management.

Overall, Day 2 was marked by insightful deliberations, interdisciplinary knowledge sharing, and active participation, contributing significantly to the conference's academic and research objectives.

Day 3:

The third day of the conference featured insightful plenary and keynote talks and concluded with the Valedictory Ceremony.

The 3^rd day technical proceedings began with a Keynote Address delivered by Dr. Nitin Chitranshi (Senior Lecturer, School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia), who offered valuable international perspectives and highlighted recent advancements in his field, enriching the academic discourse. Following this, another Keynote Address by Dr. Sandeep Singh (Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, Omaha, USA) wherein he emphasized contemporary research developments and practical applications in pharmaceutical sciences.

The next session transitioned into a Plenary Talk delivered by Dr. N. Manika (Member of the IUCN Commission on Ecosystem Management). Her lecture focused on ecosystem sustainability and management strategies, underlining the importance of environmental conservation in the face of global challenges. Subsequently, another Plenary Address was delivered by Dr. Mudita Agrawal (Dean, MSOSC, MUIT Noida Campus). She discussed emerging academic and research trends, inspiring participants with insights into innovation and interdisciplinary approaches.

The event concluded with a Valedictory Session and certificate distribution ceremony on 14^th March 2026, graced by Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal (Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow), as the Chief Guest, and Prof. (Group Capt.) O. P. Sharma (Hon’ble Director General, MUIT), as the Special Guest. The session began with the welcome of dignitaries by Dr. Sneha Verma (Convener), followed by a welcome address by Prof. B. P. Singh (Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, MUIT). The conference brief report was presented by Prof. Nidhi Srivastava (Convener). The valedictory session was enriched by the address of Prof. Mittal, who highlighted the role of environmental factors in sustainable growth and emphasized the increasing pressure on limited national resources due to rising demands. He stressed the need for innovation, circular economy practices, recycling, and optimum utilization of resources, while encouraging sustainable behavior and scientific solutions to address local social and environmental challenges faced by society. In his address on the “Way Forward,” Prof. Sharma emphasized the critical role of education, research, and innovation in shaping a sustainable future. He highlighted the importance of facilitating effective educational processes, developing skills and deeper understanding among students, and promoting the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” while advancing sustainable development through knowledge and innovation.

The program concluded with Award Distribution Ceremony conducted in the presence of all dignitaries, recognizing the outstanding contributions of participants, presenters, and organizers, and was followed by closing remarks from Dr. Neeraj Jain (Dean Academics) and a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Pavan Kumar (Dean, MSOPS). The third day effectively encapsulated the essence of the conference through insightful keynote and plenary sessions, followed by a well-organized valedictory ceremony, leaving participants with enriched knowledge and a sense of accomplishment.

Overall, ISTSD 3.0–2026 was highly successful, facilitating dynamic knowledge exchange, promoting innovation, and establishing new collaborations. The conference highlighted the critical role of science and technology in building a resilient and sustainable future. It provided participants with new perspectives on applying research and innovation to address real-world challenges.

Participants’ Feedback: The structured feedback analysis of ISTSD 3.0–2026 indicates a highly positive response, highlighting the conference’s success in meeting its academic and organizational goals. Participants appreciated the excellent planning, relevant scientific sessions, and interdisciplinary approach, which enhanced knowledge and research orientation. The conference served as a valuable platform for learning, collaboration, and presenting research, especially for students and young researchers. The hybrid mode and smooth communication were also well received, with most participants expressing interest in attending future events. Overall, it was considered an enriching and motivating experience with only minor suggestions for improvement.

Acknowledgements: The committee sincerely expresses its gratitude to all distinguish guest, dignitaries, plenary and keynote speakers, dignitaries for their valuable presence, insightful deliberations and continuous support in making the conference a grand success. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Chancellor MUIT (Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava), Hon’ble Director General, MUIT (Prof. (Group Capt.) O. P. Sharma) and BOG Member (Shri Rahul Bhardwaj) for their constant support and encouragement, and to the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, MUIT (Prof. (Dr.) Bhanu Pratap Singh), Registrar (Dr. Girish Chhimwal), Finance Officer (Shri Varun Shrivastava), Dean Academics, MUIT Lucknow (Dr. Neeraj Jain) for their guidance and support. A heartfelt appreciation to Dean, MSOS (Dr. Nishant Kumar), Dean, MSOPS (Dr. Pavan Kumar), Deputy Dean, MSOS (Dr. Kanchan Awasthi), Deputy Dean, MSOPS and Conference Convener (Dr. Nidhi Srivastava) and Dr. Sneha Verma (Conference Convener), for their tireless efforts and cooperation. We also thank Sr. AO (Dr. Rajesh Singh) and IT Team for their continued support and encouragement in organizing this programme.

The organizers also acknowledge the collaboration of partner institutions, including the National Environmental Science Academy (NESA), New Delhi; Glorious Vision University, Nigeria; Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka; and the International Strategic Centre for Agri-Food Development (ISCAD), Uzbekistan, whose academic contributions enhanced the conference’s global stature. The organizing committee further acknowledges the publishers for their contribution to the conference proceedings.