The Manipur Institute of Technology (MIT), a constituent institute of Manipur University, today inaugurated the three-day “Northeast India International Conference on Innovation in Science & Technology” at the Court Hall, Vice-Chancellor’s Secretariat.
Running from December 9–11, the event has drawn researchers, academicians, and industry experts from across the country and abroad to discuss cutting-edge solutions tailored to the region’s unique challenges.
Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University, who inaugurated the conference as Chief Guest, described Northeast India as “an emerging technological powerhouse waiting to be fully unlocked.” He stressed that platforms like this conference are essential for fostering interdisciplinary research, academic-industry partnerships, and innovation-driven problem-solving that can address local issues with global expertise.
“Northeast India is no longer on the periphery of India’s growth story,” Prof. Lokendra said. “With the right collaborations, our region can lead in sustainable technology, disaster resilience, and smart infrastructure.”
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. N.C. Shivaprakash, former Professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru. Drawing on over forty years of research experience, Prof. Shivaprakash highlighted how inter-institutional collaboration has become the backbone of modern scientific breakthroughs. He positioned Artificial Intelligence as a truly multidisciplinary frontier that blends psychology, linguistics, computer science, and engineering.
“AI is not just about algorithms; it is about understanding human cognition and societal needs,” he remarked, while touching on global trends in automotive, aerospace, healthcare, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and renewable energy. He also flagged persistent challenges such as providing reliable wireless internet in hilly and rural terrains of the Northeast.
Prof. N. Basanta Singh, Dean of the School of Engineering, outlined the conference’s core mission: to spark a “spirit of discovery” and explore AI-driven, region-specific solutions in areas ranging from disaster-resilient infrastructure to green energy and smart cities.
The conference has received strong backing from the North Eastern Council (NEC), Shillong, which is the primary sponsor. Prof. Th. Suresh Singh, Principal of MIT and president of the inaugural session, expressed deep gratitude to the NEC and revealed that 125 research papers were selected for presentation across eight technical sessions.
Researchers will deliberate on themes including disaster-resilient infrastructure, smart cities, AI applications in local contexts, renewable energy solutions, and advancements in civil, mechanical, electrical, electronics, and computer science engineering.
Dr. K. Rambha Devi, Convenor of the conference, delivered the welcome address, while Dr. Rajeev Rajkumar, Co-convenor, proposed the vote of thanks.
Dr. Sanabam Sujen Singh, Extension Officer (Seismology) (Science &Technology), North Eastern Council (NEC)
attended the inaugural function as guest from the event sponsor.
Organisers say the event is designed not only for academic paper presentations but also for forging lasting networks between universities, research institutions, and industry—networks they believe will translate into tangible technological interventions for Northeast India’s hilly topography, frequent natural disasters, biodiversity hotspots, and connectivity constraints.
As the conference unfolds over the next two days, participants hope the ideas exchanged here will help transform the Northeast from a geographically remote region into a vibrant node in India’s innovation ecosystem.
Signpost News is an Imphal-based media house that focuses on delivering news and views from Northeast India and beyond.