Shimla: The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) successfully concluded a two-day national seminar today on “Bharatiya Vidya and Vikas: Unveiling Education and Development.” The seminar brought together approximately 60 scholars from across India to delve into the intersection of traditional Indian knowledge systems (Bharatiya Vidya) and contemporary concepts of development (Vikas).
The event began on May 17 with a lamp lighting ceremony and Saraswati Vandana. Prof. N.K. Taneja, Former Vice-Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, and seminar convener, delivered the opening remarks. Prof. Shashikala Wanjari, Vice-Chancellor of the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), presented the keynote address, outlining the seminar’s objectives.
Prof. Shashi Prabha Kumar, Chairperson of the Governing Body of IIAS, delivered the presidential address virtually, emphasizing the holistic nature of ancient Indian educational philosophies and their relevance to modern challenges.
Over the course of two days, scholars explored the practical implications of Bharatiya Vidya for education, social development, environmental sustainability, and cultural revitalization. Discussions focused on the role of ancient Indian texts in shaping modern educational practices, the application of Bharatiya Vidya principles in addressing contemporary social issues, the potential of traditional knowledge systems in promoting sustainable development, and the importance of cultural revitalization in the context of globalization.
On the second day of the conference, the valedictory session featured addresses by Prof. Kailash Chandra Sharma, Vice-Chairperson of the Haryana Council of Higher Education; Prof. Sat Parkash Bansal, Vice-Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University; and Prof. Chand Kiran Saluja, Director (Academics) of the Samskrit Foundation, Delhi.
Prof. Nageshwar Rao, Director of IIAS, delivered the presidential remarks, summarizing the key takeaways and future directions for research and collaboration. Shri Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS, proposed the vote of thanks.
The seminar served as a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration, fostering a deeper understanding of the potential contributions of Bharatiya Vidya to contemporary challenges. The IIAS aims to build upon the insights generated during the seminar to further promote research and initiatives that bridge the gap between tradition and progress.
