International Topical Meeting on Classical and Quantum Optics
(INTOCQ-24)
The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), in association with the Optical Society of India (OSI), successfully organized the International Topical Meeting on Classical and Quantum Optics (INTOCQ-24) from December 16 to December 18, 2024. This prestigious event was held in honor of Prof. G. S. Agarwal, FRS (Fellow of the Royal Society, UK), from Texas A&M University, USA, and former Director of the Physical Research Laboratory, India. The conference brought together eminent scientists, researchers, industry professionals, and students to share knowledge and discuss advancements in classical and quantum optics.
The inaugural session of INTOCQ-24 featured addresses from notable dignitaries, including Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph (Registrar & Dean Academics, IIST), Prof. C. S. Narayanamurthy (Convener INTOCQ 2024, Outstanding Professor, Dean IPR, CE & IR, IIST), Prof. Dipankar Banerjee (Director, IIST), Dr. B. N. Suresh (Chancellor, IIST), Shri A. S. Kiran Kumar (Former Chairman, ISRO) Dr. V. Narayanan (Director, LPSC), and Prof. G. S. Agarwal. Dr. S. Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, sent a message for the conference as he could not attend in person. Shri A. S. Kiran Kumar delivered the keynote address following the inaugural session.
Over three days, INTOCQ-24 hosted 13 technical sessions featuring 31 invited talks, including three online lectures. Additionally, 11 contributory talks were presented by student participants from various institutions. The technical sessions were highly engaging, with active participation from the attendees.
Participants had the opportunity to engage in lab visits (Applied and Adaptive Optics Lab and Quantum Optical Technology Lab at IIST), which provided hands-on exposure to advanced research facilities and experimental setups. These visits also facilitated interactions between students and professors, promoting academic exchange and mentorship.
The cultural program organized by the students of IIST added a celebratory note to the event.