Date: November 06-08, 2024Venue: ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Presented by: Swati Sikha Barik, 3rd Year StudentInstitution: International Institute for Veterinary Education and Research (IIVER), Rohtak
I had the distinct honor of attending the 3rd International Conference on Climate-Smart Nutri-Sensitive Integrated Farming Systems for Gender-Equitable Sustainable Agriculture (ICNSFS-2024), held at the ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture, Bhubaneswar. This enriching experience left a lasting impression on me, and I am grateful to IIVER for fully sponsoring my attendance, along with a fellow student and one of our esteemed faculty members.
Overall Impressions
From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm hospitality. The conference organizers had arranged seamless travel and top-notch accommodations, providing a comfortable and well-equipped environment. Every room was meticulously maintained, offering every necessary facility to ensure a productive stay. The event also provided an array of delicious meals that showcased local flavors, reflecting both the quality and care put into every detail of this event.
Throughout the three days, I experienced the camaraderie and dedication of a community deeply committed to sustainable agricultural practices and gender equity. The conference ran smoothly, with polite interactions and a peaceful atmosphere conducive to deep learning and exchange of ideas. This supportive environment allowed for insightful discussions and meaningful networking with international scholars, which further inspired me to pursue impactful research in sustainable agriculture.
Key Learnings and Future Aspirations
In my presentation titled "Women’s Role in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry: From Ancient India to Modern Challenges and the Way Forward," I explored the rich history and ongoing challenges women face in agriculture. This conference not only expanded my perspective but also offered constructive feedback from experts, including a valuable suggestion to pursue a project on "On-Farm Childcare Facilities." This aligns with my vision for inclusive, sustainable agricultural practices, and I am inspired to delve into this area in my future studies.
The highlight of the event for me was winning the 3rd prize for Best Oral Presentation. This achievement was a testament to the guidance I received from my mentors at IIVER and reflected the quality of support and encouragement they provide to students.
Gratitude to IIVER
I am incredibly grateful to IIVER, Rohtak, for their confidence in me and their financial support, which covered my travel, stay, and registration fee. Special thanks to Mr. Malik for his steadfast financial support and to Dr. Gaya Prasad and Dr. Randhir Dabur for their expert guidance. Dr. Prasad’s invaluable mentorship was instrumental in my success at the conference, and his encouragement motivates me to pursue excellence in my studies and professional aspirations.
This conference exemplifies the opportunities IIVER consistently provides for student development and exposure to global research platforms. Participating in such prestigious events not only enhances our academic knowledge but also prepares us to contribute meaningfully to the field. I am optimistic that IIVER will continue to support students in attending similar conferences, fostering a culture of learning, research, and professional growth.
Conclusion
My experience at ICNSFS-2024 was transformative, and I strongly encourage the institution to enable future students to participate in such conferences. This exposure will inspire and empower them to pursue innovative projects, particularly in the domain of climate-smart, gender-equitable agriculture
