TMU Students Shine at IIT Mandi CRISPR & Gene Editing Workshop 2026
In a remarkable academic achievement, students of Teerthanker Mahaveer University have once again demonstrated excellence at a national platform. Two first-year BSc Agriculture students, Prakhar Pant and Krishna Singh, successfully completed a prestigious AI/ML-Driven CRISPR & Gene Editing Workshop at the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi.
The two-day intensive workshop was conducted on March 14–15, 2026, as part of Xpecto 2026, the annual technical festival of IIT Mandi, in collaboration with Ethical Edufabrica Pvt. Ltd.
Bridging Agriculture with Advanced Biotechnology
The workshop focused on the cutting-edge integration of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Biotechnology in agriculture. Students explored the revolutionary potential of CRISPR gene editing technology, which is transforming modern agriculture through:
- Development of disease-resistant crops
- Improved crop yield and productivity
- Precision genome editing techniques
This exposure allowed TMU students to gain insights beyond classroom learning and experience real-world scientific applications at a premier institute like IIT Mandi.
Hands-On Training in Gene Editing & Bioinformatics
During the workshop, Prakhar Pant and Krishna Singh actively participated in practical sessions involving advanced bioinformatics tools and data science applications, including:
- CHOPCHOP Tool for CRISPR target site selection
- gRNA Design & Analysis using CRISPR-Cas9 tools
- Python Programming in Genomics using Jupyter Notebooks
- Ensembl Plants Database for understanding plant genetics
These sessions helped students build strong technical skills essential for careers in agricultural biotechnology and genetic engineering.
Recognition & Certificates of Excellence
Upon successful completion, both students received certificates acknowledging their training in CRISPR and gene editing technologies. The certificates were issued by Ethical Edufabrica in association with IIT Mandi. This accomplishment highlights TMU’s commitment to encouraging students to pursue interdisciplinary learning and global scientific exposure.
Dr Parveen Kumar Jain, Dean, College of Agriculture Sciences, expressed pride in the students’ achievement: “Exposure to advanced technologies like CRISPR and AI at an early stage will significantly shape their careers as future agricultural scientists.”
Dr Charu Bisht, Assistant Professor, also congratulated the students and emphasised the importance of combining agriculture with modern technologies like AI and data science.
A Proud Moment for TMU
This achievement reflects the growing academic excellence of Teerthanker Mahaveer University and its focus on preparing students for future-ready careers in agriculture, biotechnology, and research. By participating in national-level workshops at institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, TMU students continue to set benchmarks in innovation and learning.
About IIT Mandi & Xpecto
Indian Institute of Technology Mandi is one of India’s premier engineering and research institutions, known for its strong emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary research, and technology-driven solutions. Nestled in the serene environment of Kamand, Himachal Pradesh, the institute provides a unique ecosystem that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and scientific exploration.
Xpecto, the annual science and technology festival of IIT Mandi, is a highly anticipated national-level event that brings together students, researchers, innovators, and industry experts from across the country. The fest serves as a dynamic platform for:
Conclusion
The success of Prakhar Pant and Krishna Singh stands as an inspiring example of how early exposure to advanced technologies like CRISPR, Artificial Intelligence, and bioinformatics can shape the future of young agricultural scientists. Their achievement not only brings pride to TMU but also highlights the importance of stepping beyond traditional classrooms to embrace innovation-driven learning.
