The International Conference on Food and Nutritional Security (iFANS-2023) was held from January 6-9, 2023, at the National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali. Jointly organized by NABI, the Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB), the Indian Society for Plant Physiology (ISPP), the Plant Tissue Culture Association of India (PTCA-I), the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), and ICAR-National Institute of Plant Biotechnology (ICAR-NIPB), the conference focused on cutting-edge advancements in agri-food and nutrition research, particularly in plant molecular biology and biotechnology.
The event aimed to bring together international experts, researchers, and young scientists to explore innovations in agriculture, food, and nutrition biotechnology, with a special emphasis on genome editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9. Recognizing the critical global demand for food and nutrition security, discussions centered on how advanced biotechnological tools can contribute to sustainable solutions.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and other key portfolios. He highlighted the significance of emerging biotechnologies in ensuring food security and emphasized the role of cutting-edge research in meeting future challenges. iFANS-2023 provided a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, fostering collaborations and inspiring young researchers to contribute to the future of sustainable agriculture and food security.