The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Nivas, Shimla, successfully concluded its two-day National Seminar on “Rethinking Development in the Himalayas: Paving the Way to a Viksit Bharat”, held from 25–26 November 2025. The seminar brought together eminent scholars, researchers, and policy experts from leading academic institutions across India. Convened by Dr. Ruchi Ramesh, Principal, Government Degree College, Darlaghat, the event focused on fostering in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities for sustainable and inclusive development in the Himalayan region.
The inaugural session featured a welcome address by Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS, followed by an introduction to the seminar theme by Dr. Ruchi Ramesh. Professor Ramesh Chandra Sinha, National Fellow, delivered the keynote address, highlighting key issues related to Himalayan ecology, climate vulnerabilities, geopolitical dynamics, and their relevance to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The session was conducted by Dr. Akhilesh Pathak, Public Relations Officer.
Across six technical sessions held over the two days, participants presented research on diverse topics such as Himalayan geopolitics, climate change impacts, disaster risk management, cultural and environmental preservation, traditional knowledge systems, financial inclusion, forest–folk relationships, high-altitude resilience, urbanization, agricultural transitions, and comparative development in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. Discussions also addressed pressing concerns like landslide risks, ecological pressures in the Darlaghat area, strategic-military considerations, water resource management, and policy directions aligned with the Viksit Bharat 2047 framework.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory session chaired by Professor Sachidananda Mohanty, National Fellow. Dr. Ruchi Ramesh presented the seminar report, and Professor Mohanty emphasized the Himalayan region’s distinct cultural–ecological identity and its critical role in shaping India’s development aspirations. The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the National Anthem.
On 26 November 2025, a special observance of Constitution Day was held as part of the seminar. Participants—including National Fellows, Tagore Fellows, Fellows, IUC Associates, officers, and staff—collectively read the Preamble of the Constitution of India at 11:00 AM, reaffirming their commitment to the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
This two-day seminar served as a significant platform for academic dialogue and policy-oriented reflection, reinforcing national efforts toward sustainable Himalayan development within the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
