14th International Multidisciplinary Conference Begins at PCTE Group of Institutes

Ludhiana, March 9, 2026: PCTE Group of Institutes inaugurated the 14th International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2026) on Monday. The conference is being organised under the theme “Human Centric Approaches to Innovation, Sustainability & Growth.” Academicians, researchers, industry experts and students from India and abroad have gathered to exchange ideas on sustainable development and technological advancement.
The inaugural ceremony began with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony symbolising the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. Dr. K. N. S. Kang, Director General, PCTE Group of Institutes, and Harpreet K. Kang, Dean International Affairs, PCTE Group of Institutes, along with distinguished guests and international delegates, graced the occasion.
Welcoming the participants, Dr. Puneet Utreja, Director, PCTE Group of Institutes, introduced the theme of the conference and highlighted the need for human-centric innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to address global challenges. On the occasion, the Conference Abstract Book featuring research contributions from scholars and academicians was also released.
The inaugural session included keynote addresses by eminent speakers. Soumaya Dutt, Plant Head at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, spoke about innovation and sustainable practices in the pharmaceutical sector.
Dr. Hassan Refaat and Director of the International Cooperation Office and Cultural Heritage Centre at Luxor University, Egypt, emphasised the importance of global partnerships in research and cultural heritage preservation.
Supreet Singh, Director of Psychocare Health Pvt. Ltd., shared his views on entrepreneurship, leadership and innovation in healthcare. Chef (Dr.) Jai Kumar Bhasin, Executive Chef with Royal Caribbean Cruises, inspired students by sharing experiences from his international culinary career.
The conference also witnessed participation from international delegates including Prof. Dr. Gehad Mohamed Sheret from Luxor University, Egypt, Dr. Haidy from Egypt Air and Dr. E. Ozan Aksoz from Anadolu University, Türkiye, along with a group of students from Luxor University, reflecting PCTE’s growing global academic collaborations. The inaugural session concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Harmeet Singh.
A highlight of the inaugural ceremony was The Great Hospitality Awards 2026, where renowned hospitality professionals Chef Arun Trikha and Chef Harpreet Singh were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry.
The Department of Hotel Management & Catering Technology presented “Indradhanusha (Rainbow) – Rasa Sangma Gourmet Cuisine,” a unique culinary concept showcasing dishes inspired by seven natural colours. The special presentation was graced by Padma Shri awardee Mrs. Rajni Bector, Founder of Cremica Group Ludhiana, as the Honourable Chief Guest. She appreciated the creativity and culinary innovation demonstrated by the students and faculty.
Alongside the conference, the Faculty of Fashion Design organised “Hastkala Vardika 2026,” a two-day conclave celebrating Indian artisans and traditional crafts. Artisans from Tripura, Kutch, Kashmir, Punjab, Kannur, Himachal Pradesh and Bihar showcased crafts such as bamboo art, leather bags, Ajrak textiles, papier-mâché, pine craft and other handmade products. The event also featured an exhibition-cum-sale, allowing visitors to purchase authentic handcrafted products directly from the artisans.
The conference will continue over the next two days with technical sessions, expert talks and research paper presentations in disciplines including engineering, management, hospitality, pharmacy and technology, encouraging academic dialogue and innovative ideas for a sustainable future.