Silchar: Assam University, Silchar, organised an induction program for the newly admitted MSc students of the Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, marking the commencement of the new academic session. The program was held in the presence of the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rajive Mohan Pant, along with esteemed faculty members, non-teaching staff, research scholars, and students.
The program commenced with an inaugural address by Prof. Parthankar Choudhury, Dean of the E.P. Odum School of Environmental Sciences, followed by a warm and gracious welcome speech delivered by Prof. Aparajita De, Head of the Department, who extended her heartfelt greetings to the newly admitted students and also introduced all the faculty members, technical staff and office staff to the students. The occasion was further enriched by the insightful and encouraging words of Prof. Ajit Kumar Das, Prof. Arun Jyoti Nath, and Dr. Panna Deb (Associate Professor), who motivated the students to pursue academic excellence and holistic development. Adding to the deliberations, Dr. Nazimur Rahman Talukdar, Guest Faculty, and Mr. Tinku Pegu, Research Scholar, also shared a few words with the gathering, inspiring the students through their perspectives. Concluding the session, Dr. Shovan Dutta Gupta provided a concise overview of the department’s technical initiatives.
An introductory session was organized for the newly admitted students, during which they briefly introduced themselves and interacted with the faculty and peers. In addition, a prize distribution ceremony was held to recognize the winners of the photography and poster presentation competitions conducted as part of the International Day for Biological Diversity celebrations on 22nd May 2025. The first and second prizes in the photography competition were awarded to Mr. Bishal Sonar and Ms. Monica Chettri (Research Scholar), respectively, while the poster presentation awards were conferred upon Ms. Bagmita Neog and Ms. Durba Kemprai (Research Scholar) for their outstanding contributions.
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The special highlight of the day was the premiere of the short documentary film “OPHIDIAN – The Life and Peril of a Snake Rescuer”, directed by Swapnadeep Sen, PhD scholar, Assam University. The film is based on the life and work of Bishal Sonar, Wildlife Researcher and Conservationist from Assam University, who has rescued hundreds of snakes while raising awareness on their ecological importance and the urgent need for coexistence. Through striking visuals and heartfelt narration, the documentary sheds light on the dangers faced by snake rescuers, the myths surrounding snakes, and their vital role in maintaining ecological balance. The audience responded with admiration, many students remarking that the film was both eye-opening and motivating. Bishal Sonar also shared his experience with the gathering at the end of the premiere.
Prof. Rajive Mohan Pant, who in his address encouraged students to “carry forward the spirit of inquiry, responsibility, and service towards society and the environment.” He emphasized that the role of young scholars is not limited to academics, but also extends to solving real-world challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and human-wildlife conflict. In his concluding remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Pant congratulated both Mr. Bishal Sonar and Mr. Swapnadeep Sen for their contributions. Assam University is proud to nurture individuals who not only excel in academics but also create impact beyond campus. Conservation is not optional — it is our responsibility,” he stated.
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The program was hosted by Ms. Abantika Pradhan (Research Scholar) and concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Dipti Mala (Guest Faculty), marking the successful completion of the event.
‘The program was a blend of academic orientation and a moving story of passion-driven conservation. The induction program set an inspiring tone for the university’s new academic year, leaving students with both guidance and purpose.'
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