National Conference on Applications of Clay Minerals in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Concludes

The 25th Annual Convention and National Conference on ‘Application of Clay and Allied Sciences for Enhancing Nutrient Use Efficiency, Carbon Sequestration and Mitigating Climate Change’ was successfully organized during 18–19 December 2025 at ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. The conference was jointly convened by the Clay Minerals Society of India and the Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR–IARI.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. M. S. Khera, Former Head, Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR–IARI, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR–IARI, as the Guest of Honour, in the presence of distinguished guests and members of the society.

During the inaugural session, Honorary Membership and Fellowship were conferred on distinguished members of the Society. The session also featured the 9th Professor S. K. Mukherjee–CMSI Foundation Lecture followed by a keynote address under the chairmanship of Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao underscored the critical role of clay and allied sciences in improving nutrient use efficiency, enhancing soil carbon sequestration, and mitigating the impacts of climate change in agriculture. He emphasized that advances in clay mineralogy, nanoscience, and climate-smart soil management can significantly strengthen sustainable and resilient agri-food systems. He also appreciated the organizing institutions for providing a valuable platform for scientific exchange and collaboration.

The conference comprised four technical sessions focusing on the role of clays and clay minerals in agriculture, carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, nutrient delivery, environmental quality, and ecosystem services. A special session on “Applications of Clay and Nanoscience in Industry and Other Niche Areas” highlighted the emerging importance of nanotechnology in agriculture and allied sectors.

Distinguished lead lectures by senior scientists addressed themes such as climate-smart fertilizers, nanoclay–polymer composites, and sustainable soil health management. The programme also included several oral and lightning presentations by researchers and students, showcasing recent advances in clay mineral research and applications.

The conference witnessed the participation of over 100 eminent scientists, academicians, industry experts, and young researchers, and concluded with a strong consensus on the growing relevance of clay and allied sciences in advancing climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi)