International Workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Plant Systematics and Biodiversity Conservation Concludes at CU Jammu

Jammu, 22 February 2025 – The five-day International Workshop on the Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Plant Systematics and Biodiversity Conservation successfully concluded at the Department of Botany, Central University of Jammu (CUJ). The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than hundred researchers, academicians, and students from various institutions, fostering discussions on the transformative role of AI and ML in plant sciences and biodiversity conservation.

The workshop was organized under the visionary leadership of Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, CU Jammu. The valedictory ceremony was graced by Prof. Vinay Kumar, Dean, School of Basic Sciences, CUJ, as the Guest of Honour. In his address, Prof. Vinay Kumar highlighted the growing significance of AI and ML in scientific research, emphasizing their role in biodiversity conservation and ecological studies. He commended the workshop for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and providing a platform for knowledge exchange between plant scientists and AI experts.

Dr. Yogesh Kumar, Head, Department of Botany, CU Jammu, reflected on the workshop’s key discussions, including AI-driven species identification, climate change analysis, ecological monitoring, and precision agriculture. He also emphasized that AI should be seen as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for traditional taxonomic and ecological expertise.

Prof. B.S. Bhau, Department of Botany, CU Jammu, extended his gratitude to all the speakers and participants, emphasizing the importance of integrating AI with traditional plant taxonomy and conservation strategies.

The workshop featured insightful talks from renowned experts, including Prof. Pradeep Kumar (Central University of Himachal Pradesh), Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Shah (University of Kashmir), Prof. Susheel Verma (University of Jammu), Prof. Mahesh Kulharia (Central University of Himachal Pradesh), Dr. A.S. Soodan (Retd., GNDU, Amritsar), Sh. O.P. Sharma Vidhyarthi, IFS (Retd.), Prof. Yashwant Singh (CUJ), Dr. R.K. Choudhary (Agharkar Research Institute, Pune), Dr. A.A. Wani (University of Kashmir), Dr. L.A. Peer (University of Kashmir), Dr. B.N. Subudhi (IIT Jammu), Dr. Arvind Selwal (CUJ), and Dr. Mudasir Ahmad Ganaie (IIT Ropar). These experts highlighted the potential of AI in large-scale biodiversity monitoring, habitat assessment, and sustainable agricultural practices. While AI offers advantages such as speed, accuracy, and scalability, discussions also addressed its challenges, including data dependency, ethical concerns, and the need for scientific validation.

A highlight of the valedictory session was the positive feedback shared by participants on stage. Several attendees expressed their appreciation for the interactive sessions, hands-on demonstrations, and expert-led discussions. They acknowledged the workshop’s role in expanding their knowledge of AI applications in plant sciences and biodiversity conservation, with many expressing keen interest in applying these technologies in their future research.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Ashok Kumar, Organizing Secretary of the workshop, who expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all the dignitaries, speakers, participants, and sponsors for their invaluable contributions in making the event a success. Certificates were distributed to all participants in recognition of their active engagement throughout the five-day program.

The workshop was financially supported by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Govt. of India. With the successful completion of this workshop, Central University of Jammu reaffirms its commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research and technological innovations in plant systematics and biodiversity conservation.