IIT (ISM) hosts ILMI 2026, showcasing advances in laser science, plasma physics and quantum technologies
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK Dhanbad, Aug. 6: Cutting-edge research in laser science, plasma physics, ultrafast optics and quantum-enabled technologies took centre stage…
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Dhanbad, Aug. 6: Cutting-edge research in laser science, plasma physics, ultrafast optics and quantum-enabled technologies took centre stage at the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, as the three-day National Symposium on Intense Laser Matter Interactions (ILMI 2026) commenced on Thursday.
Organised by the Department of Physics, the symposium has brought together leading scientists, researchers, academicians and students from across the country to deliberate on emerging challenges and future opportunities in one of the fastest-evolving fields of modern physics.
The scientific programme of ILMI 2026 spans a broad range of frontier research areas, including high- and ultra-high-intensity laser-matter interactions, laser-driven plasma science, ultrafast optics, ultrafast magnetisation dynamics, theoretical and computational plasma physics, high harmonic generation, terahertz science, spintronics, laser diagnostics, advanced plasma diagnostics, laser ablation, deposition, material processing, and the development of India’s next-generation high-intensity laser facilities.
The symposium also aims to strengthen collaboration among researchers working on advanced laser technologies and experimental physics.
‘Basic research is key to India’s scientific future’
Delivering the inaugural address, Prof. G. Ravindra Kumar, Distinguished Professor at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai, emphasised the pivotal role of fundamental research in driving technological innovation.
“Fundamental research is the foundation on which transformative technologies are built. Applications will naturally follow, but sustained investment in basic science is essential for achieving India’s long-term scientific aspirations and Vision 2047,” he said.
Platform for innovation and collaboration
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sarat Kumar Das, Deputy Director of IIT (ISM), described scientific conferences as powerful platforms for knowledge exchange and innovation.
“Interactions at such symposiums often lead to transformative technologies and interdisciplinary collaborations. I hope the delegates also explore IIT (ISM)’s advanced research facilities during their visit,” he said.
Highlighting the wider societal relevance of the symposium, Prof. Parthasarathi Das, Dean (Research & Development), said advances in laser, light and quantum science have the potential to address critical challenges in energy, healthcare, food security and critical minerals.
“Interdisciplinary collaborations such as these help translate scientific excellence into technologies with national and global impact,” he noted.
Scientific sessions and industry participation
Welcoming the delegates, Prof. Amitava Adak, Convener of ILMI 2026, said the symposium seeks to provide a vibrant platform for researchers in laser physics, plasma physics, ultrafast science and allied disciplines to exchange ideas and identify future research directions.
He also expressed gratitude to IIT (ISM) Director Prof. Sukumar Mishra for his guidance and support despite his inability to attend the inaugural session.
Prof. V.K. Rai, Head of the Department of Physics, expressed confidence that the three-day deliberations would generate valuable scientific insights while showcasing the department’s growing research capabilities.
Prof. Keka Ojha, Dean (Continuing Education & Outreach), highlighted the importance of knowledge dissemination, lifelong learning and stronger industry-academia partnerships in promoting inclusive technological growth.
Outlining the programme, Prof. Ritwik Mondal, Co-Convener of ILMI 2026, said the symposium features eight technical sessions, along with plenary lectures, keynote addresses, invited talks, student oral and poster presentations, and a dedicated industry session, providing participants with extensive opportunities for scientific discussions and collaborations.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Amitava Adak, who acknowledged the support of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Board of Research in Nuclear Sciences (BRNS), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), industry partners, delegates and the organising committee for making ILMI 2026 possible.
