International Conference on Drug Discovery Held at NM Padaliya Pharmacy College

The 34th APSI Scientist Meet-2026 and an international conference titled 'Drug Discovery and Development in Agrobiotechnological and Pharmaceutical Science' was grandly organized by NM Padaliya Pharmacy College located in Changodar, Ahmedabad. The event took place under the leadership of the college's Chairman and Managing Trustee, Mr. Maganbhai Patel, at the Ahmedabad Management Association (AMA) in Vastrapur.

Before delving into the details of the conference, it is essential to provide a brief overview of the college. NM Padaliya Pharmacy College, situated in Changodar, Ahmedabad, is recognized as one of the premier pharmacy institutions in the country. Thanks to the efficient administration of Chairman and Managing Trustee Maganbhai Patel, the college boasts a 100% pass rate in its M.Pharm program and achieves full placement for its graduates.

This pharmacy college is equipped with extensive infrastructure, modern equipment, and well-resourced laboratories, including seminar rooms with projectors, a team of experienced and specialized professors, dedicated teaching and non-teaching staff, a library filled with informative books, Wi-Fi internet access, insurance facilities for students, transportation services, hostel accommodations for outstation students, an RO plant for drinking water, free locker facilities, and 12 computer labs with advanced software. Additionally, the institution offers scholarships for academically bright and economically disadvantaged students, along with SMS or phone updates to parents regarding their children's academic progress, making it one of the leading colleges in the nation. Under the meticulous management of Principal Dr. Jitendra Bhangale and the tireless efforts of the entire staff, this institution has emerged as a significant hub for future specialists in the educational and healthcare sectors.

The two-day conference was divided into the main hall and various seminar halls. The success of this conference was significantly attributed to the organizing committee members, including Chairman and Managing Director Mr. Maganbhai Patel, Organizing Secretary Dr. Jitendra Bhangale, Convener Dr. K.M. Patel, APSI President Dr. P. Kaushik, Conference Coordinator Prof. S.K. Gupta, Dr. Krishnakant Patel, Prof. Dr. Bhumi Rawal, Prof. Dr. Suraj Chauhan, and Prof. Dr. Ram Lal Ram.

Mr. Jashubhai Chaudhary, Vice Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of India, graced the conference as the chief guest. Distinguished guests included former Vice Chancellor of the Department of Botany at Rajasthan University, Dr. P.C. Trivedi, APSI President Prof. P. Kaushik, APSI Vice President Dr. S.A. Salgare, retired Principal of Municipal Arts and Urban Science College, Mehsana, Dr. K.M. Patel, Principal Dr. Jitendra Bhangale, Managing Director of Zion Group of Companies, Vatva, Dr. Krishnakant Patel, and Conference Coordinators Prof. Dr. Suraj Chauhan and Prof. Dr. Bhumi Rawal.

Due to the global war situation, representatives from Singapore, Germany, Australia, South Korea, and Malaysia could not attend in person and participated through virtual presentations. However, a total of 1200 delegates from various countries, including Nagaland, Nepal, and states across India such as Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Jammu and Kashmir, and Goa, were present.

The conference was inaugurated with a lamp-lighting ceremony by Chairman Maganbhai Patel and other dignitaries. Following this, all esteemed guests were honored with bouquets and mementos. Organizing Secretary and Principal Dr. Jitendra Bhangale provided insights into the college's significant activities and achievements, as well as an outline of the conference's objectives.

After the lamp-lighting, Chairman and Managing Trustee Maganbhai Patel addressed the audience, highlighting the increasing mental and physical health issues faced by people worldwide. He pointed out that the fast-paced lifestyle has led to a lack of time for personal interactions, resulting in isolation and various mental and physical disorders. He emphasized the urgent need for guidance from experts and counselors to help individuals navigate these challenges.

In today's fast-paced world, the complexities of mental and physical health issues are becoming more entangled. The loneliness in relationships and the rush to achieve everything quickly can confuse the mind, leading to a loss of mental balance when faced with any heart-related issues. It is crucial to help those suffering from these problems. Various organizations are conducting seminars and conferences, inviting scientists, doctors, professors, and experts to emphasize new discoveries and research, which have shown success. In this hectic era, individuals have become complacent about their health and nutrition, leading to numerous diseases. As families spend significant amounts on medications and treatments, this conference aims to raise awareness about healthcare and proper nutrition.

Maganbhai Patel further stated that organizing such national and international conferences will accelerate advancements in healthcare and agricultural development through new discoveries and research, benefiting society. The nation is progressing rapidly in every field through new discoveries and technologies, including science, pharmaceuticals, Ayurveda, agricultural energy, health, herbal, and education. The primary objective of this conference is to explore how to enhance the effectiveness of medicines while minimizing side effects, ultimately benefiting patients.

He expressed that every individual desires to remain healthy and vibrant for years. Scientists are conducting research to fulfill this desire. Notably, various companies are producing medications for physical fitness and beauty, but the quality of these products varies. Some products can cause side effects. Reports indicate that scientists are researching drugs that can maintain health and vitality for years without side effects. According to Professor Linda Petridge, a genetics expert based in London, scientists have made progress in the initial stages of developing such drugs. Once fully successful, taking one pill daily could slow down the aging process for middle-aged individuals, proving beneficial for overall health without significant side effects. This research has garnered global attention. Through this conference, attending scientists, doctors, professors, experts, and pharmacy students have demonstrated their awareness and commitment to improving public health through new discoveries and research.

In his heartfelt address, Maganbhai Patel emphasized the crucial role of pharmacy education in strengthening the nation's healthcare system. Pharmacists are not just dispensers of medications; they are integral pillars of public health. He urged students and young professionals to embrace their profession with a sense of mission and ethical responsibility, reminding them that their work directly impacts countless lives.

Reflecting on decades of social service and community development, Maganbhai highlighted the importance of giving back to society and utilizing knowledge and resources for the welfare of the community. He stressed that educational institutions should prepare students to face real-world challenges with competence and compassion, going beyond textbooks.

After Maganbhai Patel's address, the chief guest, Mr. Jashubhai Chaudhary, Vice Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), was invited to address the gathering. Mr. Chaudhary is a prominent figure in the pharmacy sector and hails from Mehsana district in Gujarat. With a B.Pharm and MBA qualification, he has served as the Registrar of the Gujarat State Pharmacy Council for nearly six years, a position that brings immense pride to the pharmacy community in Gujarat. In his address, Mr. Chaudhary delivered an impactful and informative speech about the conference's proceedings, sharing detailed insights about the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), its structure, roles, and responsibilities. He also highlighted the latest initiatives and developments undertaken by PCI, enabling the audience to understand the future of the pharmacy profession in the country and stay updated on modern changes and regulatory updates. His address was met with great enthusiasm and appreciation from all attendees.

During the conference, Dr. Praveenchandra C. Trivedi, former Vice Chancellor of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer, Rajasthan, delivered a distinguished address. A prominent figure in the field of Plant Sciences, Dr. Trivedi holds a Ph.D. from North Carolina State University in America and is a fellow of nine prestigious academic institutions, including F.L.S. (London). With over 40 years of teaching and research experience, he has published more than 350 research papers and authored 173 books, setting a world record in this field. He has guided 44 Ph.D. scholars and has served as Vice Chancellor at five universities, delivering lectures as an invited speaker at international conferences in 15 countries. Dr. Trivedi emphasized the importance of research, innovation, and academic excellence in advancing science and education, inspiring participants, especially young researchers and students, to pursue knowledge with dedication and integrity. His address, enriched with decades of scholarly knowledge and experience, proved to be highly informative and beneficial for all attendees.

Dr. Trivedi also analyzed how cutting-edge biotechnological interventions are actively addressing global health and environmental challenges. Discussing the main themes of the conference, he emphasized the powerful connection between agro-biotechnology and pharmaceutical science, noting that modern drug discovery increasingly relies on sustainable and plant-based biological systems.

Dr. Trivedi further elaborated on how advancements in genetic engineering, molecular diagnostics, and bioprocessing are revolutionizing targeted therapies and the development of life-saving drugs. Additionally, his address examined the critical role of agricultural biotechnology in enhancing food security, environmental resilience, and crop nutritional capacity, which are fundamental pillars of preventive healthcare for the growing population. By bridging agricultural sustainability and clinical innovation, Dr. Trivedi underscored that the ultimate goal of modern biotechnological research is to achieve long-term improvements in disease management and overall global well-being.

Following Dr. Trivedi's address, the conference convenor, Dr. K.M. Patel, was invited to speak. Dr. Patel is a distinguished educator with over 36 years of academic experience in Botany and Biology at the postgraduate level. He has served as the Principal of Municipal Arts and Science College, Mehsana, and currently holds the position of Director (Academic and Research) at NM Padaliya Pharmacy College, Ahmedabad, as well as President of the Global Agrobiotech and Pharma Research Foundation. He holds a Ph.D. along with prestigious fellowships such as F.A.P.S. and F.E.S. Dr. Patel has made significant contributions to research in biodiversity, ethnobotany, and allelopathy, for which he has received several honors, including a gold medal from APSI.

As the convenor of the 34th APSI International Conference, Dr. K.M. Patel expressed heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, delegates, and participants. He provided detailed information about the conference, its objectives, themes, and the significance of the topics discussed during various sessions. He spoke about the vision behind organizing such a prestigious international platform and the collective efforts of the organizing committee to make it successful. Dr. Patel emphasized the importance of research and academic collaboration in advancing the fields of pharmacy, botany, and life sciences, encouraging participants to maximize their opportunities for knowledge exchange during the conference.

The conference featured a grand award ceremony jointly organized by three prestigious institutions: the Global Agrobiotech and Pharma Research Foundation, the Academy of Plant Sciences India (APSI), and the Global Academy of Biological and Applied Sciences (GABAS). Additionally, five other collaborating institutions, including the Pharmacy Council of India (New Delhi), Gujarat State Pharmacy Council (Gujarat), Association of Pharmaceutical Teachers of India, Gujarat Technological University (GTU), and Society of Ethnopharmacology, also contributed to the event. This ceremony was a memorable occasion where individuals who made exemplary and outstanding contributions in the fields of plant science, pharmacy, biological sciences, and applied research were collectively honored by these esteemed institutions.

The awards presented by these institutions reflect their shared commitment to promoting academic excellence, scientific progress, and professional achievements at both national and international levels. Each award carried the prestige and legacy of the awarding institution, making it a matter of great pride for the recipients. The ceremony was conducted with great dignity, where distinguished individuals on stage honored each award winner amidst enthusiastic applause from the audience. This occasion was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a powerful source of inspiration for young researchers, students, and professionals to advance their work with greater dedication, passion, and purpose. Following the award ceremony, a souvenir was unveiled by all dignitaries present on stage. This moment was one of the most memorable and prestigious of the inauguration ceremony. It is noteworthy that the souvenirs published in the last four years of conferences have been prepared and published without any advertisements from any institution or corporate company, under the guidance of Chairman Mr. Maganbhai Patel and the tireless efforts of Principal Dr. Jitendra Bhangale and his team. No fundraising events have ever been held for the souvenir. It is solely prepared through economy management and high-profile management. The souvenir was jointly unveiled by the dignitaries present.

This souvenir serves as an unforgettable document of the 34th APSI Scientist Meet-2026 and the international conference on 'Drug Discovery and Development in Agro-Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences,' held from April 11 to 13, 2026. This informative souvenir, spanning nearly 300 pages, is adorned with inspiring messages from distinguished personalities in the fields of science, education, industry, and public service. The honorable Chief Minister of Gujarat, Mr. Bhupendrabhai Patel, expressed his best wishes, stating that this conference reflects the vision of the esteemed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Developed India@2047.' The Minister of Energy and Petrochemicals of Gujarat, Mr. Rishikeshbhai Patel, emphasized the growing global demand for herbal medicines and the need to upgrade technical and regulatory standards. Meanwhile, the State Minister for Tribal Development, Food, and Civil Supplies of the Gujarat Government, Mr. P.C. Baranda, praised this conference as an excellent platform for the exchange of innovative ideas among scientists, researchers, and students. From the academic and regulatory sectors, Dr. Rajul K. Gajjar, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Technological University (GTU), expressed confidence that this conference would contribute to significant advancements in drug discovery and agro-biotechnology. Mr. Jashubhai Chaudhary, Vice Chairman of the Pharmacy Council of India, emphasized the importance of herbal drug research and the need for technological upgradation in the Ayurvedic industry. Mr. Bharatbhai B. Patel, President of the Gujarat State Pharmacy Council, and E.C. member Dr. Richa Dayaramani extended their best wishes, noting that this conference aligns with the national vision of scientific excellence. APSI President Dr. Purushottam Kaushik praised the organizing committee and stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to address contemporary scientific challenges. APSI Secretary Dr. S.K. Gupta expressed heartfelt gratitude to all delegates and highlighted the significance of knowledge exchange in the fields of botany and pharmaceutical sciences.

Messages were also received from other dignitaries, including Prof. (Dr.) Vimal Kumar, Vice Chancellor of LNCT University, Indore; Prof. (Dr.) Ram Lal Ram, former University Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Marwari College, Ranchi; S.N. Jhalla, District Registrar (Cooperative Societies), Mehsana; C.M. Patel (G.P.S.), Assistant Police Commissioner (Cyber Crime), Rajkot; J.D. Kansara (G.P.S.), Deputy Superintendent of Police (SC-ST Cell), Mehsana; V.R. Chauhan, Assistant Forest Conservator, Sabarkantha Forest Department, Himmatnagar; and Dr. Lal Singhji, Plant Scientist and Additional Director of the Botanical Survey of India (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India).

This souvenir also includes congratulatory messages from leading pharmaceutical and life science industries, including Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited, Zion Biotech Private Limited, Corona Remedies Limited, Livmore Life Sciences Private Limited, Neovent Therapeutics, Carewin Pharmaceuticals (Guj.), Rosadel Pharma Private Limited, Belaviso Healthtech LLP, QualiHeal Pharmaceuticals, and Liftup Creators Private Limited. All these institutions expressed confidence in the conference's potential to advance research and innovation in pharmaceuticals and botany. The souvenir was highly appreciated by all attendees, as it emerged as a lasting testament to the collective vision, hard work, and dedication of the organizing committee, faculty, and all collaborating institutions that made the 34th APSI International Conference a truly grand and memorable occasion.

With the conclusion of the award ceremony, the inauguration of the 34th APSI International Conference officially came to an end. Enriched by the presence of distinguished dignitaries, inspiring addresses, and a glorious award ceremony, this inaugural session was highly successful, creating an encouraging and academically vibrant atmosphere for the upcoming conference.

The closing ceremony of the conference was marked by a heartfelt vote of thanks presented by Conference Coordinator Prof. Suraj Chauhan. Prof. Chauhan sincerely expressed deep gratitude to all esteemed dignitaries, chief guests, speakers, and award winners for their invaluable presence and for enriching the gathering with their knowledge and insights. He also extended heartfelt thanks to the organizing committee, faculty members, volunteers, and supporting institutions, whose tireless efforts and dedication made the successful conduct of the inaugural ceremony possible. Additionally, he appreciated the enthusiastic participation of delegates, researchers, and students, recognizing them as the true driving force behind this conference. Prof. Chauhan's heartfelt vote of thanks was warmly received by the audience, marking a dignified and memorable conclusion to the inaugural ceremony.

On the third day following the conference, a dinner was organized by Chairman and Managing Trustee Maganbhai Patel for the invited dignitaries. During the dinner, all dignitaries described this conference as a memorable moment in their lives and praised Mr. Maganbhai Patel's leadership. They also recognized this college as one of the leading institutions not only in the country but also globally. The conference organized by NM Padaliya Pharmacy College is a significant step towards revolutionary discoveries for the nation and humanity.