SRINAGAR: The snow-covered resort town of Gulmarg became a centre of scientific dialogue as the second edition of World Science Day (WSD–2025) was celebrated at the newly inaugurated Gulmarg Convention Centre. The event, led by Prof. M. A. Shah, Dean, Alumni and International Affairs and former Head, Department of Physics, NIT Srinagar, was organised under the banner of SSM College of Engineering in collaboration with Government Degree Colleges of Baramulla and Tangmarg, and several private institutions.
The occasion was attended by Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA of Gulmarg and former Secretary of Education, who emphasised the need to promote scientific awareness in addressing challenges such as climate change, energy crises, technological innovation, and sustainable tourism. He expressed his intention to make World Science Day an annual event in Gulmarg and acknowledged Prof. Shah’s efforts in popularising science throughout the region.
Naik, Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Development Authority, highlighted the importance of sustainability and scientific foresight in development planning. He assured institutional support for future knowledge-based initiatives and commended the smooth organisation of the event.
In his keynote address, Prof. M. A. Shah spoke on the integral role of science in daily life, exploring themes such as renewable energy and equitable access to healthcare. He called for collaborative efforts to advance scientific literacy and inspire innovation. Declaring Gulmarg as the “World Science Magnet,” he envisioned the region as a destination for scientific exchange and future academic achievements.
The technical sessions featured a diverse range of speakers. Prof. M. S. Mir from NIT Srinagar discussed the convergence of science, technology, and management. Farooq Fareed Nabi, former Group Commander, Indian Air Force, delivered a talk on the role of science in service to humanity, drawing from his experiences in national research collaborations. G. N. Var, former President of the Private Schools Association, spoke on science tourism and the potential of linking education with cultural collaboration in the valley.
Bashir Ahmad Dr, former Chief Engineer and Head of the Solar Rooftop Mission (J&K), presented the economic and environmental advantages of solar energy. Ruksanul Haq, CEO of Chinar Quantum AI, explained advances in quantum computing and artificial intelligence, connecting them to the foundational principles of modern physics.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Gopalkrishnan, former Professor, CIT Bangalore, and Co-Chairman of the World Science Day Series. He announced internship opportunities for students of the valley in space and satellite research programs. Coordinated by Alhaq Masoodi, Zonal Education Officer, Tangmarg, the celebration also featured a Space Science Quiz organised by NIT Srinagar.
World Science Day 2025 in Gulmarg symbolised the power of science to unite communities and inspire progress. Under the leadership of Prof. Shah, the event reinforced Gulmarg’s growing identity as a place where learning, innovation, and natural beauty come together—marking its emergence as a true “World Science Magnet.”
