The Department of Pharmaceutics, NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (NGSMIPS), Nitte (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, in association with the Controlled Release Society – Indian Chapter (CRS-IC), Mumbai, successfully organized a One-Day National Seminar on Artificial Intelligence in Pharmaceutical Development on 12th September 2025. The event was hosted at the Nitte University Auditorium, Paneer Campus, Deralakatte, Mangalore, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from academicians, researchers, students, and industry professionals nationwide.
The seminar commenced with the inaugural ceremony, which was graced by distinguished dignitaries from academia, research, and industry graced. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Shri Harish Jain, President of the Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs (FOPE) and Director of Embiotic Laboratories (P) Ltd., Bengaluru, who emphasized Artificial Intelligence’s growing role in shaping the pharmaceutical sector’s future. The Guest of Honour was Prof. Dr. Vandana B. Patravale, President of the CRS-Indian Chapter and Professor of Pharmaceutics at the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, whose presence added significant value to the event. The function was presided over by Prof. (Dr.) M. Shantharam Shetty, Pro-Chancellor of Nitte (Deemed to be University), shared his visionary outlook on integrating emerging technologies in healthcare and education. The Principal of NGSMIPS and Convener of the seminar, Prof. (Dr.) Marina Koland welcomed the gathering with her inspiring address, while Prof. (Dr.) C.S. Shastry, Director of Research and Strategic Initiatives, added weight to the proceedings with his presence. The inaugural function concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Akhilesh Dubey, Organizing Secretary, who acknowledged the contribution of who acknowledged the contribution of all resource persons, delegates, and the organizing committee.</p?
The academic sessions of the day began with a keynote address delivered by Dr. Parizad Elchidana, Principal Technical Consultant Pharma at ACG World, Mumbai, on the theme “Intelligence Meets Innovation: AI at the Forefront of Pharma Development.” The session, chaired by Dr. Mohammed Gulzar Ahmed, Principal, Yenepoya Pharmacy College & Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed-to-be-University), Mangaluru, set the tone for the day by highlighting how artificial intelligence redefines every aspect of pharmaceutical research and industry, from drug discovery to patient-centric solutions.
Two plenary sessions by eminent speakers followed this. Dr. Satish Polshettiwar, AI trainer and researcher at MIT World Peace University, Pune, delivered the first plenary lecture on “Formulation 4.0: Integrating AI in Pharmaceutical Science.” Dr. D. Nagasamy Venkatesh, Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty, chaired this session. The second plenary lecture was presented by Dr. Anant Ketkar, Principal Scientist and Scientific Lead – India at Simulations Plus Inc., who elaborated on “Basics of PBPK Modelling and Introduction to GastroPlus®X and its Integration with AI.” Dr. Prakash S. Goudanavar, Principal, Sri Adichunchanagiri College of Pharmacy, Adichunchanagiri University, Mandya, Karnataka, chaired this session. Together, these lectures provided deep insights into the cutting-edge applications of AI in formulation science, predictive modeling, and regulatory science, offering participants a clear view of future opportunities and challenges.
The afternoon session featured engaging e-poster presentations, allowing young researchers and academicians to present innovative work. More than seventy posters were showcased, covering various themes related to Artificial Intelligence and pharmaceutical sciences. The posters were classified into four categories, encouraging diversity and research topic inclusivity. To recognize excellence, first, second, and third prizes were awarded in each category, honouring the creativity, research quality, and presentation skills of the participants. This competitive yet interactive approach added vibrancy to the seminar and allowed participants to learn from each other.
The scientific sessions ended with an engaging panel discussion with industry experts, moderated by Prof. Dr. Vandana B. Patravale. The session brought together perspectives from academia and industry to explore the real-world applications of AI, the regulatory landscape, and the implementation challenges. Participants actively engaged with the panelists, leading to a lively and insightful exchange of ideas that emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing AI-driven pharmaceutical innovations.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory session, where the winners of the e-poster competitions were felicitated, and the collective achievements of the day were celebrated. The Chief Guest, Dr. Praveenkumar Shetty, Director (R&D), Nitte (DU), graced the session, whose presence added significance to the occasion. The valedictory remarks acknowledged the contributions of the organizers, speakers, and participants while reinforcing the role of Nitte (DU) and CRS-IC in fostering academic excellence and innovation in pharmaceutical education and research.
The event drew participation from prestigious institutions across the country, including ICT Mumbai, JSS Colleges of Pharmacy at Ooty and Mysore, Crescent College Kannur, Government Medical College Kannur, Yenepoya, Manipal, KLE University, among many others. This broad representation underscored the national significance of the seminar and reflected the growing interest in harnessing Artificial Intelligence for pharmaceutical development.
The One-Day National Seminar on Artificial Intelligence in Pharmaceutical Development was a significant academic event combining learning and networking opportunities. A total of 153 delegates registered, reflecting strong interest in the seminar. It highlighted the growing role of AI in shaping pharmaceutical sciences, showcased new research, and created a platform for helpful discussions between academia and industry. The success of the seminar reflects the commitment of NGSMIPS to advancing pharmaceutical education and research in line with global trends.
