Imphal, 06 August 2026: Dr. Thangjam Robert Singh of the Department of Botany, Manipur University, participated as an expert in the “Brainstorming Session on Interdisciplinary Research in Biotechnology” held at the NEHU Guest House, Guwahati, on July 27, 2026.
The session was sponsored and organised by Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, as part of an effort to strengthen inter-institutional collaboration and promote impactful research partnerships.
The programme brought together leading institutions and researchers, including Vice-Chancellors and Directors from the North-Eastern Region of India and Vel Tech. The discussions focused on the need for collaborative and interdisciplinary research in biotechnology, particularly in areas that can address regional challenges and support sustainable development.
Speaking at the session, Dr. Th Robert Singh emphasised the importance and scope of multidisciplinary biotechnological approaches for the inventorisation and valorisation of plant genetic resources of the North-East region.
He highlighted that such approaches could contribute to crop improvement, sustainable production, product development and practical problem-solving. He cited examples such as extending the shelf life of tree beans, developing product formulations from diverse banana varieties, Job’s tears and rice, and finding biotechnology-based solutions to water pollution.
The participation of experts from Manipur University in the session is significant as the North-East region is known for its rich plant diversity and traditional bioresources. Collaborative research in biotechnology is expected to help convert these resources into scientific, economic and environmental value while promoting sustainable utilisation.
The brainstorming session also sought to create stronger academic and research linkages between institutions in the North-East and Vel Tech, Chennai, with the larger objective of developing meaningful research partnerships in biotechnology.