UKHRUL, SEP 16: A two-day interdisciplinary national seminar on Indian Knowledge Systems concluded at Don Bosco College (Autonomous), Maram, on Wednesday, bringing together scholars, faculty members, research scholars and students for discussions on traditional knowledge, ecology, culture and sustainable futures.
Organised jointly by the departments of English and Botany on September 15 and 16, the seminar was held under the theme “Revisiting Indian Knowledge Systems: Ecology, Literature, Plants, Rituals, Healing Traditions and Sustainable Futures.”
The inaugural session was attended by Shri Shanngam S, IFS, divisional forest officer, Senapati, as chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Shanngam spoke about the significance of knowledge in the responsible management of creation and said traditional knowledge had evolved through human experience, experimentation and continuous learning. He also encouraged students to view mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth.
Also read | CM Proposes Journalist Pension Hike to Rs 10,000, Family Pension to Rs 7,000
Dr. Devina Krishna, assistant professor, department of English, Patna Women’s (A) College and member of the UGC Expert Committee on Indian Knowledge Systems, delivered the keynote address.
In his presidential message, Fr. (Dr.) Sebastian K.O., principal of Don Bosco College (Autonomous), Maram, spoke about the evolution and diversity of knowledge systems across civilisations, highlighting traditions ranging from Greek philosophy to Ayurvedic medical knowledge.
Delivering the theme address, Dr. Widinibou Charengna, head of the department of English, stressed the need to document and preserve indigenous knowledge, including traditional medicine, folktales, dance, language and indigenous belief systems. He said failure to document and transmit such knowledge could lead to its gradual disappearance.
The technical sessions featured research presentations on language, traditional medicine, ritual plants, indigenous knowledge, social work, culture, biodiversity, ecological consciousness, biocultural heritage and sustainable futures.
Also read | End of an era as Newmai News Network bids farewell after 20-plus years
Seven papers were presented on the first day, while nine papers were presented on the second day by faculty members and research scholars from various universities and colleges. Scholars and faculty members from different institutions also participated online.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory session addressed by Fr. (Dr.) Sebastian K.O. Certificates were distributed to participants and paper presenters, while Sr. Dr. Bindu, SMMI, delivered the concluding remarks.
Disclaimer: This report is based on a press release issued by the department of English, Don Bosco College (Autonomous), Maram. The information and statements attributed to the organisers have been reproduced based on the details provided in the release.
