Plant-Based Molecular Farming: A Global Dialogue at ICGPMP-2025

- By Farin Khatoon.

The International Conference on Global Perspectives of Medicinal Plants (ICGPMP-2025), held on March 20-21, 2025, at Ramjas College, University of Delhi, was a remarkable convergence of leading scientists, policymakers, and researchers. The event provided an insightful platform for discussions on medicinal plants, biotechnology, biodiversity conservation, pharmacognosy, and sustainable agricultural innovations.

I had the honor of delivering an oral presentation on “Plant-Based Molecular Farming: Transforming Biopharmaceutical Production.” The presentation highlighted the revolutionary potential of plants as biofactories for pharmaceuticals, shedding light on recent advancements, challenges, and future prospects in this domain. My research, which stems from my time at POSTECH, South Korea, under Prof. Jong Hum Kim, has significantly contributed to my understanding of plant-based biotechnology, and presenting it on such a grand stage was an unforgettable experience.

The conference brought together distinguished scientists and policymakers from India and across the globe, including representatives from South Korea, Malaysia, Nigeria, Nepal, USA, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Sweden, UAE, Denmark, Spain, and Italy. Their participation underscored the global significance of medicinal plant research and its impact on healthcare, sustainability, and economic development.

The event was graced by eminent scientists and policymakers, including:

• Prof. Dinabandhu Sahoo – Renowned Botanist & Former Director, IBSD

• Prof. Suresh Kumar – Convener, ICGPMP-2025, Ramjas College, DU

• Dr. Sukanta Majumdar – Expert in Medicinal Plant-Based Drug Development

• Prof. Ramesh Chandra – Vice-Chancellor, Maharaja Surajmal Brij University

• Prof. Arun K. Pandey – Distinguished Botanist & Biodiversity Expert

• Prof. P.C. Trivedi – Eminent Researcher in Plant Sciences

• Prof. Diwan S. Rawat – Leading Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry

• Prof. Anand Prakash – HoD, Biotechnology, MGCUB, Specializing in Neurobiology

• Dr. Radhakrishnan K. – Senior Ethnobotanist, JNTBGRI, Kerala

• Prof. Mahesh K. Dadhich – CEO, National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)

• Dr. Rabinayarayn Acharya – Director General, CCRAS, Delhi

These renowned experts, along with numerous other scholars, engaged in stimulating discussions on the future of plant-based medicine, nanotechnology in drug discovery, and sustainable agricultural practices. The conference also highlighted the role of traditional knowledge systems in modern pharmacology and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to harness the full potential of medicinal plants.

A particularly enriching aspect of ICGPMP-2025 was the opportunity to interact with like-minded researchers and scientists who share a passion for bridging traditional medicinal practices with cutting-edge biotechnological innovations. The exchange of ideas was truly inspiring and has broadened my perspective on global efforts in medicinal plant research.

I am incredibly grateful for the support and mentorship of Prof. Jong Hum Kim and my lab mates at POSTECH, South Korea, whose guidance has been invaluable in my research journey. Additionally, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Prof. Suresh Kumar and the organizing team for curating such an enriching and well-structured event.

With my abstract now published in the official conference booklet (ISBN-coded), this experience has been a milestone in my academic career. I look forward to applying the insights gained from this conference to my future research endeavors and contributing to the global discourse on plant-based biopharmaceuticals.

I will be collecting more pictures from the event and will share them soon. This conference was not just an academic event—it was a testament to the power of collaboration, the impact of medicinal plant research, and the future of sustainable healthcare.

Onward to more discoveries and innovation!