Grand Inauguration of International Conference RTESD-2026 at Vivekananda Global University, A Strong Platform for Global Deliberation on Environment and Sustainable Development

The 5th International Conference on the topic of Recent Trends in Environment and Sustainable Development (RTESD- 2026) was successfully inaugurated by Vivekananda Global University (VGU) and established with two days of impactful academic discussion and international cooperation. The conference will take place between January 22 and 24, 2026 at the Auditorium of the Technology Block and will feature the leading experts who will come together with the new researchers to discuss the serious environmental problems nowadays.

It has been identified by the interest of academicians, scientists, environmental professionals, researchers and policymakers in and outside India among others. There will be 418 participants in the conference of academics and research scholars that will be the best in the field of environmental protection and eco friendly development. This high attendance reflects the relevance of the theme of the conference in the time when the world is struggling with climate change, exhaustion of resources, pollution, and ecosystem imbalance.

The event started with the chief guests of the Board Room of Technology Block where they met with the members of the organizing committee and the university officials. This was followed by an official reception at the entrance of the auditorium. The traditional lamp light and Saraswati Vandana were used to start the ceremony, which gave it a sense of dignity, positivity, and academic interest.

Shri V. Saravanan Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Government of Rajasthan was the Chief Guest of the occasion. Dr. Meghendra Sharma, Secretary, Vigyan Bharti, Rajasthan, Pro Vice Chancellor, VGU, Prof. (Dr.) D. V. S. Bhagavanulu was the first to lead the inaugural session. The honourable guests were also welcomed to the college by a very welcoming gesture whereby Shri M. R. Bagaria, the Patron of VGU, gave bouquets and shawls to them.

The welcome speech, given by Prof. (Dr.) Kailash Agrawal, Dean, Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences, has  spoken about the international importance of the theme of the conference. He pointed out that not only are environmental protection and sustainable development academic issues but they are also major issues that have a direct correlation to the future of the human race. He mentioned that environmental degradation, climatic change, and unsustainable consumption trends require immediate and concerted efforts of governments, institutions, and individuals. Conferences such as RTESD, according to him, are a welcome change of platforms where people can passively and actively discuss and find solutions to their issues, which are interdisciplinary.

The Conference Abstract Book was shared during the session, and this marked the start of meaningful academic discussions. Prof. (Dr.) Subodh Srivastava, the Conference Chair, explained the goals and direction of the RTESD conference series. He said the conference was planned to encourage new research ideas, promote international cooperation, and bring together scholars who care about sustainable development. Since it began, RTESD has become a well-known and respected conference that connects science, policy and society.

Prof. (Dr.) D. V. S. Bhagavanulu President repeated the main points in his speech: in VGU for supporting research work, innovation and international partnership. He explained that the university always aims at providing scholars and students with opportunities to undertake meaningful research that will lead to development of the society. He pointed out that there would be no sustainable development without regular research, or application of technology, and mutual effort.

Shri M. R. Bagaria, the Patron of VGU, spoke to the attendees and stressed the importance of the young researchers and students in managing the issues facing the global environment. He also had belief in the younger generation having a potential to introduce new ideas and revolutionary solutions. He challenged the people present to utilize the conference to the best of their ability by having discussions that produce practical results.

As a Guest of Honour, Dr. Meghendra Sharma highlights the need to incorporate the traditional knowledge systems in the modern scientific methodology. He pointed out that the Indian knowledge traditions have welcomed harmony with nature and sustainable forms of living. In his opinion, local knowledge and modern science can be combined to establish a powerful platform of balanced and inclusive development.

Shri V. Saravanan Kumar, the Chief Guest of the event in his main speech, noted that findings of research should be linked to effective policy making. He indicated that the research on the environment should be translated into practical policies that can help in the community and ecosystem. He stated that international conferences such as RTESD-2026 are important platforms that can help to close the gap between academia, government, and society. Through mediation between these key participants, these incidences are important in developing informed and effective environmental strategies.

The first session ended with a vote of thanks by Prof. (Dr.) Sushila, organiser of RTESD-2026 and the Head of the Department of Sciences in VGU. As,  Prof. (Dr.) Sushila was very thankful to the chief guests, dignitaries, participants, organizing committee members and volunteers as they gave their best. The National Anthem was performed as a closing of the ceremony.

The next two days conclude  research paper talks, technical sessions and professional lectures and panel discussions within RTESD-2026. These conferences will look to discuss new ways of conserving the environment, reducing climate change, introducing green technologies, renewable energy, and realization of the Sustainable Development Goals.

By the effective launch of RTESD-2026, Vivekananda Global University proves its status as an active academic organization that promotes research-based solutions. Through this interaction of professionals and young scholars on a unified platform, the university will continue to play a significant role in the global agenda of developing a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.