On June 30, 2025, the Department of Political Science at Dibrugarh University, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), hosted a transformative National Seminar on “Indian Knowledge Systems and Higher Educational Institutions: Propagation, Preservation & Sustainability.”
The event attracted scholars and enthusiasts to explore the integration of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into modern education, emphasizing their implementation in both theory and practice. Professor Basu delivered an impactful keynote address, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems. She highlighted how ancient Indian culture, enriched by Vedic philosophies and diverse influences, stubbornly refuses to fade despite historical challenges, as she noted, “India’s culture has evolved with wisdom and flexibility, retaining its identity through changing times.” Prof. Basu advocated integrating IKS into curricula, citing examples such as Ayurveda and Vedic mathematics, and stressed the need to learn from our forefathers while critically assessing our syncretic heritage. She also addressed contemporary contradictions, stating, “These are the best and worst of times—women’s rights have grown, yet crimes persist,” urging a balance between tradition and progress.
Prof. Basu also chaired a technical session featuring papers on various themes related to IKS, including temple architecture, literary imagination, and human rights education. Participating in the valedictory panel, she further enriched discussions on preserving IKS through digitization and community engagement, aligning with the seminar’s themes. She underscored the importance of actionable strategies and sustainable models to ensure IKS’s global relevance. The event, marked by insightful dialogues, was a resounding success, offering a platform to reclaim and propagate IKS for future generations. Prof. Basu described the experience as “truly inspiring,” reflecting the collective commitment to honoring India’s intellectual heritage.
