Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh successfully concluded the Three-Day 4th Annual International Conference on Women in Optics and Photonics in India (WOPI 2025), held from 05 to 07 December 2025, organised by the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) in association with SPIE. The conference celebrated and advanced the role of women in optics, photonics, and allied technologies, bringing together a vibrant community of women scientists, engineers, educators, leaders, and students from across India and abroad.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. Ranjana Nallamalli, Director, Futuristic Technology & Management, DRDO, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Deepa Bajpayee, General Manager, BEL Panchkula, as the Guest of Honour. The event was held under the patronage of Prof. Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, Director, PEC, and supported by the Core Committee comprising Prof. Neena Gupta, Prof. Jyoti Kedia, and Prof. Divya Dhawan, whose vision and leadership shaped the intellectual depth and organisational excellence of the event.
With participation from over 300 women delegates, WOPI 2025 hosted two plenary talks, eight technical talks, five major panel discussions, poster presentations, 3-in-1 thesis sessions, and specialised workshops. Distinguished dignitaries, including Padma Shri Dr. Vijaylakshmi Deshmane, Chairperson, BoG, IIITDM Kurnool, engaged with participants and motivated them to pursue leadership roles in STEM.
A dedicated panel discussion on “Partners that Support Women in Science” highlighted the importance of institutional initiatives, mentorship frameworks, and collaborative ecosystems in enhancing female participation in research and technology. The Optical Instrumentation session featured an impactful technical talk on next-generation engineering optics, covering precision wavelength design and innovative imaging methodologies.
A special wellness workshop on “Strength & Confidence: Building Mental & Emotional Resilience” was conducted by Dr. Sunita Sharma, Associate Professor, National Institute of Nursing Education, promoting holistic well-being for women in scientific careers.
Session V on Quantum Technology and Optical Communication delivered cutting-edge insights into futuristic research domains. Dr. Joyee Ghosh from IIT Delhi presented “Quantum Light for Multi-User Secure Quantum Communication”, highlighting progress in quantum networks and secure information channels. Dr. Jasleen Lugani, also from IIT Delhi, discussed “Sensing and Integrated Quantum Photonics”, emphasizing scalable integration and precision sensing applications. The session concluded with 3-in-1 minute thesis presentations, where two participants were recognised with awards for outstanding research contributions.
The day concluded with Panel Discussion V on “Entrepreneurship and Funding Today”, featuring an eminent lineup of women leaders: Dr. Radhika Trikha (CEO, iHub AWaDH, IIT Ropar), Dr. Mamta Juneja (Professor, UIET Panjab University), Dr. Ruchi Singla (Director & CEO, RAS Intellect Solutions), Dr. Pooja Devi (Senior Principal Scientist, CSIO Chandigarh), and Dr. Mamta Bhardwaj (COO, STPI CoE Neuron). The session was moderated by Dr. Alpana Bhagatji, Scientist-E, TBRL DRDO, and Dr. Vasundhara Singh, PEC Chandigarh. Discussions centred around startup ecosystems, deep-tech innovation, funding pathways, and the need to convert cutting-edge research in photonics into scalable enterprises.
WOPI 2025 aimed to bring together women scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, and students on a unified platform to exchange ideas, explore collaborations, and strengthen women’s leadership in optics and photonics. Through scientific sessions, leadership activities, personal interactions, and networking opportunities, the conference offered an enriching experience supporting both personal and professional growth.
The success of WOPI 2025 was made possible through the generous support of SPIE, DSTRE Chandigarh, ANRF, ISRO, MeitY, BBMB, Keysight–Fiber Optic Services, Laser Science, and Edmund Optics. Exhibitors including Lucius Photonics, Springer, Edgetech Technologies, and Keysight–Fiber Optic Services added immense value through academic and industry-driven engagement.
The conference concluded with a vibrant valedictory ceremony and prize distribution. Ten Best Poster Awards were presented across various thematic categories. Each winner received a memento, an e-voucher from Springer, and a cash prize sponsored by Fiber Optic Services, recognising innovation, scientific merit, and excellence in presentation.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Jyoti Kedia and Dr. Divya Dhawan appreciated all speakers, participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their invaluable contributions in making WOPI 2025 a remarkable success.
