Srinagar, December 22,( K Pen): The Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, on Monday organized the 2nd J&K International Conference on Breast and Allied Cancers at Gandhi Bhawan, marking a significant initiative toward enhancing cancer awareness, research collaboration, and multidisciplinary approaches to cancer management.
The three-day international conference is sponsored by ANRF–DST, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, and has drawn participation from eminent oncologists, clinicians, researchers, academicians, and young scholars from across India and abroad.
The inaugural session was attended by several distinguished dignitaries. Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Organizing Secretary of the conference and faculty member, Department of Bioresources, formally welcomed the gathering and outlined the objectives of the conference. He highlighted the rising incidence of breast and allied cancers in the region and stressed the urgent need to integrate basic research with clinical practice, early detection, and community awareness. On the occasion, the abstract book (souvenir) of the conference was also released, featuring cutting-edge research contributions by participants.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, emphasized that cancer research must be multidisciplinary, involving life sciences, clinical medicine, engineering, artificial intelligence, and public health. She underlined the importance of extending awareness initiatives beyond conference halls to communities, institutions, and across national boundaries for wider impact.
Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar, University of Kashmir, reaffirmed the university’s support for research collaborations and innovation, particularly in health-related fields. He stressed the need to encourage women scientists and called for wide dissemination of the conference outcomes among academic institutions, healthcare systems, and society.
Prof. Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal/Dean, Government Medical College Srinagar, highlighted the availability of advanced diagnostic technologies and specialized facilities at GMC Srinagar. She noted that trained female medical professionals are available to ensure patient-friendly breast cancer screening and care, and appreciated the collaboration between the University of Kashmir and medical institutions.
Dr. Younus Iftekhar Munshi, Deputy Director General, CCRUM, New Delhi, emphasized the role of natural resources in healthcare, stating that nearly 70 percent of therapeutic raw materials are plant-derived. He assured financial and institutional support for research and informed that CCRUM offers multiple funding avenues to promote interdisciplinary and translational research in cancer.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Sameer Koul, Senior Consultant Oncologist, Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, stressed the need to involve external experts and institutions in cancer research and awareness programs. He particularly emphasized extending such initiatives to remote and underserved areas of Jammu and Kashmir to ensure equitable access to early diagnosis and care.
Earlier, Dr. Riaz-ul-Rehman, Head, Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, highlighted the department’s sustained efforts in advancing cancer-oriented basic and translational research and stressed the importance of institutional collaboration and capacity building.
On the occasion, a book authored by Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir on retinoids was also released, highlighting the therapeutic potential of retinoids in cancer biology and treatment.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir, who expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, dignitaries, speakers, sponsors, organizing team, and participants, reiterating the conference’s commitment to fostering collaboration, dialogue, and awareness in the fight against breast and allied cancers | Kashmir Pen
