Chandrabhan Sharma College (Autonomous), Powai, in collaboration with the University of Mumbai and The ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, Hyderabad, proudly hosted its 11th Multidisciplinary International Conference on the theme “IKS: Bridging Tradition, Innovation & Sustainability – Glorious Past, Promising Present, Designed for a Bright Future.” The event was sponsored by the Western Regional Centre of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (WRC-ICSSR).
The one-day academic celebration brought together eminent scholars, researchers, faculty members, and students to explore the relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) in shaping a sustainable and innovative future.
Programme Highlights
The conference began with an inaugural session marked by inspiring addresses:
- Dr. Vaishali Rajput, I/C Principal and Conference Chairperson, welcomed dignitaries and participants with a thought-provoking speech, reminding everyone that knowledge is the greatest treasure and that Indian traditions continue to guide humanity even today.
- Asst. Prof. Dr. Anita Pandey, Convenor, outlined the vision of the conference.
- Chief Guest Dr. Rajan Welukar, Vice Chancellor, Atlas Skill Tech University, Mumbai, praised the initiative, calling it “the need of the hour for the new generation.” He emphasized that spreading awareness of Indian Knowledge Systems is vital to ensure that students inherit not only modern skills but also timeless wisdom.
- Guest Speaker Dr. Varadraj Bapat, Professor at IIT Bombay, highlighted the role of IKS in sustainable development.
- Keynote Speakers Dr. Suyash Pradhan and Mr. Kedar Dunakhe shared insights on blending tradition with innovation.
- International Guest Speaker Mr. Aalok Gupta, CEO of LSF Global, Hong Kong, offered a global perspective on how Indian wisdom can inspire international practices.
Parallel technical sessions, chaired by Dr. Flora Shukla and Dr. Mrunal Bhatt, featured paper presentations across diverse disciplines. The valedictory function, addressed by Dr. Prof. B. R. Kamble, Principal of Nalanda Educational Foundation’s Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar College, concluded the day with reflections on the importance of research rooted in heritage.
Research Contributions
The conference received an overwhelming response:
- 104 papers received
- 85 papers selected for publication after rigorous peer review
Significance
The conference underscored the growing academic interest in Indian Knowledge Systems as a framework for balancing tradition with modern innovation. Chief Guest Dr. Welukar noted that “today’s youth must be equipped not only with technology but also with the wisdom of Ayurveda, Yoga, Vedic Mathematics, and sustainable practices. This blend will empower them to lead the world responsibly.”
Principal Dr. Vaishali Rajput inspired participants by drawing parallels between ancient centers of learning like Takshashila and Nalanda and today’s academic institutions, urging researchers to build a bridge between modern science and traditional wisdom.
