Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 22: The five-day International workshop on the Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in Plant Systematics and Biodiversity Conservation concluded at the Department of Botany, Central University of Jammu (CUJ). The event saw active participation from over a hundred researchers, academicians and students from various institutions, fostering discussions on AI and ML’s transformative role in plant sciences and biodiversity conservation. Organized under the leadership of Prof Sanjeev Jain, Vice-Chancellor CUJ, the Workshop’s valedictory session featured Prof Vinay Kumar, Dean, School of Basic Sciences, CUJ, as the guest of honour. In his address, Prof Kumar emphasized the increasing importance of AI and ML in biodiversity conservation and ecological research, commending the workshop for promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr Yogesh Kumar, Head, Department of Botany, CUJ, reflected on key discussions, including AI-driven species identification, climate change analysis, ecological monitoring, and precision agriculture. He highlighted AI as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for traditional taxonomic and ecological expertise. Prof B S Bhau, Department of Botany, CUJ, stressed the need to integrate AI with conventional plant taxonomy and conservation strategies. Renowned experts, including Prof Pradeep Kumar (CU Himachal Pradesh), Prof Manzoor Ahmad Shah (University of Kashmir), Prof Susheel Verma (University of Jammu), Dr R K Choudhary (Agharkar Research Institute, Pune) and Dr BN Subudhi (IIT Jammu), provided insights into AI’s role in biodiversity monitoring, habitat assessment, and sustainable agriculture. Discussions also addressed challenges such as data dependency, ethical concerns and scientific validation. Participants expressed enthusiasm for implementing AI in their research. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Ashok Kumar, organizing secretary, acknowledging the contributions of dignitaries, speakers and participants. Certificates were distributed to attendees in recognition of their active engagement. Financially supported by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India, the Workshop reaffirmed CUJ’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and technological innovations in plant systematics and biodiversity conservation.