Conference on Recent Advances in Chemical Sciences at Khalsa College  

Amritsar, March 1 (Punjab Post Bureau) – One day UGC-sponsored National conference on “Recent advances in Chemical Sciences” RACS VI was organized by PG department of Chemistry, Khalsa College here today. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Geeta Hundal, Head and Prof., Department of Chemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar in which she said the 21^st century belongs to chemistry.

            Dr. Hundal while addressing the graduate, post-graduate students, faculty members of the College as well as from various neighbouring Colleges highlighted the new developments taking place in Chemistry in the new era. She said to develop scientific temper, the students must ask maximum questions in the classrooms. “This is the first step of scientific aptitude”, she said.

            In the technical session, Dr. Kamaljit Singh from GNDU said that understanding the materials science and chemistry of natural materials can lead to significant advances in man-made materials. “From nano-materials and molecular devices to polymers and extended solids, chemistry is creating a world of new materials as catalysts, sensors, molecular transporters, artificial scaffolds, molecular filters, and light-emitting or electron-conducting ensembles “, said he.

            Organising Secretary, Dr. Hardeep Kaur  earlier extended welcome to the guest speakers and participants. Prof SK Mehta from Punjab University, Chandigarh Prof. BK Basra, Prof. H.K. Manchanda from NIT also emphasized that it is necessary to keep aware the students about new developments taking place in the subject. Principal Dr. Mehal Singh honoured the guest speakers.

            In the another session Prof. Manchanda shared his expertise on the ‘Relevance of 12 Principles of Green Chemistry’ and use of ionic liquids. He described the application of Green Chemistry in industrial and research areas that could help mankind to use renewable bi-products and non-volatile substances which will give an alternative source such as bio-diesel, bio-gas, non-hazardous solvent that will reduce pollution from our environment. The experts suggested how the attainment of sustainable development goal is necessary for the survival of civilization. They encouraged the students to consider the principles of green chemistry while designing processes and choosing reagents.

            A valedictory function was held at the end of seminar. Dr. Amit Anand gave a brief introduction about the college and Chemistry Department. The Prizes and certificates for best posters were distributed by the dignitaries. Dr. Randhir Singh, Dr. B.K. Randhawa and Dr. Kultar Singh proposed a vote of thanks to all the delegates, Professors and students for their valuable cooperation in making this seminar a grand success.