National conference on Indian knowledge systems held at Sardar Patel varsity

Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi, hosted a national conference on Indian knowledge systems here yesterday, alongside a state-level ceremony to honour toppers of the Bharat Boudhik Examination.

The programme was conducted under the patronage of SPU Vice-Chancellor Prof Lalit Kumar Awasthi, who also presided over the conference. The event was graced by chief guest Prof Kailash Chand Sharma, who also serves as the national president of VBUSS, and special guest Prof Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT-Mandi. Dr Surendra Shrestha was also present on the occasion.

The conference was convened by Dr Saneel Thakur and Prof Surender Kumar Sharma, president of VBUSS (North Zone). The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from deans, heads of departments, faculty members, researchers, and students. A key highlight was the felicitation of toppers of the Bharat Boudhik Examination for their academic excellence. Prof Awasthi underscored India’s rich intellectual heritage, rooted in holistic and value-based education, drawing references to ancient centres of learning such as Nalanda and Takshashila. He emphasised the growing relevance of Indian knowledge systems in contemporary education and highlighted the role of the National Education Policy, 2020, in integrating traditional wisdom with modern curricula. He further noted that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence must be guided by ethical principles like Dharma and Ahimsa to ensure inclusive and sustainable progress.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof Kailash stressed the importance of reconnecting modern education with India’s intellectual traditions. He cautioned against excessive dependence on artificial intelligence, advocating instead for a balanced approach that harmonised technological advancement with human creativity and ethical values.

Prof Behera highlighted the concept of consciousness as the foundation of Indian knowledge systems and encouraged students to pursue innovation, entrepreneurship and value-driven living.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr Gaurav Kapoor. The conference concluded on a successful note, reinforcing the significance of Indian knowledge systems in the modern era while promoting academic excellence, innovation, and value-based education among the youth.