Celebrating Women’s Strength: CSIR-IHBT Marks International Women’s Day
The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) in Palampur came alive with energy and inspiration on March 13, 2026, as staff, students, and guests gathered to celebrate International Women’s Day. The event was not just a commemoration of women’s fight for equality but also a vibrant showcase of their contributions in science, society, and beyond.
Welcoming the gathering, Director Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav spoke passionately about the importance of equal opportunities and safety for women, highlighting their role in shaping progress across fields from research to sports.
The programme featured distinguished voices. Chief guest Dr. Jatinder Kaur Arora, Advisor to the Northern Region Science & Technology Cluster, reflected on the historic journey of women’s rights and the changing roles women continue to embrace. Advocate Adarsh Sood shed light on legal protections, including the POSH Act, while Mrs. Nitika Bhandari spoke about social movements and the challenges women face in everyday life.
The celebration also honored inspiring women entrepreneurs and female administrative staff of the institute, recognizing their dedication and achievements. A workshop titled “Strengthening of Inner-Self” encouraged participants to reflect on resilience and empowerment, while an exhibition of creative artefacts prepared by women staff and students added a personal, artistic touch to the day.
For IHBT, the event was more than a formal celebration—it was a reminder of the courage, creativity, and leadership women bring to every sphere of life, and a call to continue building a future where equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.
