2-day social science congress begins at Panjab University

The 10th Chandigarh Social Science Congress (CHASSCONG-2025) began at Panjab University. The two-day event, organised by Panjab University with support from the Indian Council of Social Science Research, is bringing together scholars and researchers to discuss key social science issues in North-West India, including identity, agrarian economies, gender and human development.

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PU Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig, in her inaugural address, spoke about the importance of social science research in addressing regional challenges. She stressed the need for social scientists to engage with policy and cultural aspects to improve the quality of life.

Delivering the keynote address, Surinder Singh Jodhka from Jawaharlal Nehru University questioned the existing social science frameworks in understanding Indian society. He argued that the rural-urban divide is a colonial construct embedded in nationalist discourse. Citing census data from 1901 to 2011, he said while cities expanded, rural areas persisted and the idea of India as a land of villages was a colonial perspective. He called for a fresh approach to studying spatial formations and social agency.

The inaugural session included a lamp-lighting ceremony, the PU anthem, and a welcome address by Pampa Mukherjee, coordinator, CHASSCONG-2025, who introduced the congress theme. Shruti Bedi introduced the keynote speaker and Upasna Joshi delivered the vote of thanks.

Following the inauguration, the first plenary session on identity issues in North-West India was chaired by Bhupinder Brar, with speakers Rekha Chowdhury and Yogesh Snehi. Chowdhury discussed the partition of Jammu and Kashmir as an ongoing reality shaped by contested borders and migration. She highlighted the emergence of new identities, including bordered communities and displaced Hindu refugees. She suggested soft borders and cross-border connectivity to foster peace.

Snehi examined Punjab’s religious identity, focusing on Sufi traditions and their resilience. He highlighted the continued cultural significance of Sufi shrines despite demographic shifts after partition. He noted that both Muslim and non-Muslim caretakers have historically maintained these shrines, reflecting Punjab’s syncretic traditions. 

Faculty and research scholars presented papers in departmental sessions. The congress will continue on March 7 with sessions on agrarian economies, human development, and gender, concluding with a keynote address by Gurpreet Mahajan from Jawaharlal Nehru University.