The event brought together dignitaries, invited guests, industry practitioners, faculty members, research scholars, and participants from various disciplines. The ceremony marked the beginning of two days dedicated to research presentations, dialogue, and academic engagement.

Opening of the Ceremony

The inauguration began with an invocation followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, which symbolised knowledge, clarity, and the formal commencement of the symposium. Senior leaders of the University welcomed and felicitated the dignitaries, setting a respectful and reflective tone for the day.

Welcome Address and Institutional Reflections

Dr Sheila Mahapatra, Associate Director – Research, delivered the Welcome Address, where she outlined the purpose and scope of ADRIS. She spoke about the symposium’s role as a platform for interdisciplinary research and collaboration, and reflected on the continuity of the symposium since ADRIS 2024. Her remarks underscored how the event has gradually become an integral part of the University’s academic culture.

Leadership Perspectives

In his Inaugural Address, Mr Abhay G. Chebbi, Pro-Chancellor, stressed the need to strengthen research culture and innovation within the University. He highlighted the importance of creating an environment that supports inquiry and contributes to global academic engagement.

Dr B. Priestly Shan, Vice-Chancellor, delivered the Presidential Address and reiterated the University’s commitment to scholarly development, interdisciplinary learning, and institutional partnerships. He emphasised the collective responsibility of the academic community in building a strong research ecosystem.

Guest Addresses and Academic Insights

The Chief Guest, Mr Ashok G. V., Partner at Factum Law and Allied Law Practices, shared his views on the evolving intersections between research, technology, and law. His address encouraged participants to consider emerging directions and the need for thoughtful inquiry in rapidly changing fields.

Special remarks were made by Dr Antony V. Samrot, Director – Research Management Centre, Manipal University College Malaysia, Alliance University’s academic partner for the symposium. He spoke about the value of doctoral research and the relevance of international collaboration in strengthening academic outcomes.

Closing of the Inaugural Session

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr Rajesh Sharma, Associate Professor, who expressed appreciation to the dignitaries, organisers, faculty members, and participants for their contribution to the inauguration and their continued support towards research activities. The inaugural ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, after which attendees proceeded to the technical sessions scheduled for the day.

Participation and Academic Contributions

ADRIS 2025 received more than 400 research paper submissions across varied disciplines. Accepted and presented papers will be published in a SCOPUS-indexed book series by Taylor & Francis, contributing to the academic visibility and research dissemination efforts of the symposium.

Conclusion

The inauguration of ADRIS 2025 set a thoughtful and engaging tone for the symposium. With active participation from scholars and academic partners, the event began on a steady foundation of intellectual exchange and collaborative intent, reflecting the University’s focus on research, dialogue, and knowledge advancement.