International seminar

The Department of Botany, MES Kalladi College (Autonomous), Mannarkkad, in association with the Alumni Association of Botany – IPSEA, organized a two-day International Seminar on “Climate Change and Biodiversity Conservation: Challenges, Innovations, and Future Perspectives” on 5 and 6 August 2026 at Tagore Hall. The seminar aimed to bring together researchers, academicians, professionals, and students to discuss the pressing issues of climate change and biodiversity conservation, share innovative solutions, and explore sustainable strategies for a resilient future. The first day featured three expert sessions. Dr. Remesh Moochikkal, Assistant Professor & Herbarium Curator, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Jazan University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, delivered a session on the sustainable use of plant resources and biodiversity conservation. Dr. Mohammed Shameer Cheriyath, Assistant Director, Spices Board, Government of India, discussed Indian spices, production, trade, export opportunities, sustainability, and value addition. Dr. Usman A., Assistant Professor and Head, PG and Research Department of Botany, KAHM Unity Women’s College, Manjeri, presented on plant biodiversity and microbial resources for climate change adaptation and sustainable agriculture. The second day continued with three academic sessions. Ms. Shamna K. T., PhD Scholar & Project Associate, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, discussed blue carbon and beyond, focusing on the role of mangroves in climate change mitigation and adaptation, with a case study from Maharashtra. Dr. Arabhi P., Associate Professor & Head, Department of Botany, Baselius College (Autonomous), Kottayam, delivered a session on the fascinating world of flowering plants, highlighting current challenges and future prospects. Dr. Ummu Habeeba K., Assistant Professor, Research Department of Botany, MES Asmabi College, P. Vemballur, spoke on invasive flora and its major threats to biodiversity. The seminar also included paper and poster presentations, providing participants with an opportunity to present their research findings and exchange ideas. The programme encouraged interdisciplinary perspectives, innovative approaches to conservation, and future academic collaboration. Overall, the two-day seminar was an academically enriching and successful programme, providing a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, research interaction, and awareness regarding climate change and biodiversity conservation. The participation of experts, researchers, faculty members, alumni, and students contributed greatly to the success of the programme.