The Department of Botany at Jagannath Barooah University (J.B.U), Jorhat, successfully organized a 5-day National Workshop titled "Novel Technologies in the Production of Biofertilizers for a Sustainable Environment" from December 15 to 19, 2025. This event was held in collaboration with the Botanical Forum of J.B.U, Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC), and Assam Pollution Control Board (APCB). Dr. Liza Handique served as the Organizing Secretary, ensuring smooth coordination throughout the program.

Inaugural Session
The workshop kicked off with a warm welcome address by Dr. Utpal Jyoti Mahanta, Registrar of J.B.U. The Honourable Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jyoti Prasad Saikia, delivered the inaugural speech, highlighting the critical role of emerging technologies such as nanobiofertilizers and genetic engineering in sustainable biofertilizer production. Dr. Gaurav Mishra, Scientist E from the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), presented the keynote address on innovative biofertilizer technologies for climate-resilient agriculture in Northeast India. Mr. Jayanta Dutta, Regional Head of APCB, spoke on plastic waste management rules, policies, and regulations in India. Dr. Tashmi Konwar, Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany, extended the vote of thanks.

Participation and Technical Sessions
Over 45 participants from diverse institutions across the region attended, engaging in a comprehensive technical schedule. The workshop featured expert-led sessions and hands-on training, structured day-wise as follows:

Day 1 (December 15): Vermicomposting session by Nilave Bhuyan, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, J.B.U, Jorhat.

Day 2 (December 16): Morning session on isolation and inoculum production of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) biofertilizers by Dr. Prosanta Hazarika, Retired Chief Technical Officer, Rain Forest Research Institute (RFRI), Jorhat. Afternoon session on harnessing microbial biocontrol agents for biopesticide production and commercialization by Dr. Bharat Chandra Nath, Scientist, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat.

Day 3 (December 17): Role of mycorrhizae as biofertilizers by Dr. Heikham Evelin, Associate Professor, Manipur University. Afternoon hands-on training on Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) as biofertilizers, including isolation and mass multiplication, by Dr. P.N. Bhattacharyya, Head, Department of Botany, N.N. Saikia College, Titabar.

Day 4 (December 18): Practical demonstration of Azolla cultivation and biofertilizer production by Rajarishi Bhattacharyya, Senior Technical Officer, RFRI, Jorhat.

Day 5 (December 19): Training on Trichoderma production by Dr. Mausomi Madhab, Senior Technical Officer, Tocklai Tea Research Institute, Jorhat, followed by the valedictory session.

The sessions emphasized practical skills and novel approaches to biofertilizer production, promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.

Outcomes and Impact
Participants gained hands-on expertise in key biofertilizer technologies, fostering knowledge exchange among academics, researchers, and policymakers. The workshop underscored the potential of biofertilizers in addressing climate challenges and reducing chemical fertilizer dependency in Northeast India. Feedback highlighted the event's relevance and the need for similar future initiatives.