Koraput: A two-day Workshop on “Modern Approaches to Biodiversity Documentation with Emphasis on Lichens” began on the Campus on 07 October 2026 at its Campus in Subaneda, organised by the Department of Biodiversity & Conservation of Natural Resources (BCNR) and Department of Botany, in collaboration with CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow. 

The two-day Workshop was inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.)  Ajit Kumar Shasany in the presence of other eminent scientists of India, Dr Sanjeeva Nayaka, Scientist G, CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow, Dr M.G. Thakkar, Director, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, the Registrar In-charge of the University, Dr Sanjaya Kumar Pradhan, Dr Debabrata Panda, Head I/c, Dept. of BCNR and Convener of the Workshop and Dr B. Chandrasekhar, Head I/c, Dept. of Botany. 

Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Shasany stressed the need for scientific temperament for successful research leading to meaningful teaching, which is important for every scholar. Analysing past science with modern technologies will reveal hidden facts required for progress and development.  As Koraput is one of the best places for research on Biodiversity and Anthropology, every student should explore new opportunities leading to their holistic development as well as the University. With the signing of an MoU with BSIP, Lucknow, we will learn new things about the evolution of plants and animals through Palaeoscience.

Dr M.G. Thakkar, in his speech, said that Koraput is one of the important regions with an ancient variety of soil formations and stones containing iron, chromium and others. He further said that through collaboration between BSIP, Lucknow, and CUO, Koraput will explore ancient pollens in relation to modern pollens, leading to an understanding of pollen developmental Biology. As this region is suitable for the study of Palaeoscience, the collaborative work will be helpful to know the rich heritage of Koraput.

Dr Sanjeeva Nayaka said that lichens play a very important role in the environment, and their proper identification is important to study the role of algae and fungi. He also delivered the keynote address of the Workshop. Dr Anjali Trivedi, Scientist at BSIP, Lucknow, also spoke on the occasion. Dr Debabrata Panda delivered the welcome address and spoke on the purpose of conducting such workshops. Dr Chandrasekhar proposed a vote of thanks. Other dignitaries present on the occasion were Prof. Narasingh Charan Panda, Dean of Schools, CUO, Sri L.N.Boxi, science journalist, and other dignitaries, faculty members, research scholars and students of the University. 

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Central University of Odisha and Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, on the day to work on research collaboratively. The MoU was exchanged between the Vice Chancellor of CUO, Prof. (Dr.) Ajit Kumar Shasany and Dr M.G. Thakkar, on behalf of BSIP, Lucknow. The two-day workshop will see exposure to many research areas in the field of botany and biodiversity, particularly lichens, pollens and other aspects of plants and trees.