Modern trends in inorganic chemistry: celebration of inorganic chemistry in India

Abstract

Which is the most exciting research topic in “Inorganic Chemistry” being pursued in India? This question may have multiple debatable responses, but the most likely event which would offer an answer would be the gathering of practising inorganic chemists of the country, in the Modern Trends in Inorganic Chemistry (MTIC). Briefly, Modern Trends in Inorganic Chemistry is a series of biennial symposia that was initiated in 1985 at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata, India. Ever since its inception, MTIC has been an important forum for the inorganic chemists of the country and remains the most sought-after event to showcase their science. CSIR-NCL in association with IISER Pune and SP Pune University had the pleasure of hosting the 17th edition of MTIC in Pune during 11−14th Dec. 2017. After brief remarks by the convener Dr. Amitava Das, MTIC-XVII opened with two inaugural talks by two eminent inorganic chemists, namely, Prof. Animesh Chakravorty and Dr. T. Ramasami. Prof. Chakravorty, a founder member of MTIC, shared his academic and research experience titled “An old man’s album of inorganic chemistry”, aptly suited for a person of his stature, while Dr. Ramasami emphasized on how inorganic chemistry can be best utilized to address the need of our countrymen. A talk titled “Joy of doing useful inorganic chemistry” was delivered by Dr. T. Ramasami, a champion and stalwart in a public-private research partnership with enormous experience in research and science policy. These two talks set the perfect stage for the remaining proceedings.