In a significant academic development, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has announced the establishment of three new centres dedicated to the study of Hindu Dharma, Buddhism, and Jainism. This initiative, approved in the Executive Council meeting on May 29, 2024, aims to deepen the understanding of these ancient Indian religions.
The university issued an official notification on Friday, July 12, 2024, formalising the creation of the ‘Center for Hindu Studies,’ the ‘Center for Jain Studies,’ and the ‘Center for Buddhist Studies.’ These centres will be part of the ‘School of Sanskrit and Indic Studies.’
The decision to establish these centres follows the recommendations of a specially formed committee. This committee was charged with exploring ways to implement the ‘National Education Policy, 2020,’ and to integrate the Indian knowledge system into the university’s curriculum. This strategic move aligns with JNU’s commitment to promoting comprehensive education that includes the rich traditions and philosophies of Indian religions.
The establishment of these centres is also a response to the growing interest in the academic study of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. These new centres will provide specialised programs and courses, fostering a deeper academic engagement with these religions’ philosophies, histories, and cultural contributions.
This announcement is particularly noteworthy as it comes from JNU, a university that has previously been in the spotlight for student protests and political activism. Notably, the campus was the site of controversial events in February 2016, when anti-national slogans raised by leftist students made national headlines.
JNU’s initiative follows similar steps taken by Delhi University (DU), which has already established a ‘Center for Hindu Studies.’ DU offers a master’s degree in this field and is planning to introduce an undergraduate degree soon.
Additionally, DU has a centre for Buddhist studies, which recently received a substantial fund of Rs 35 crore from the central government to establish the ‘Center for Advanced Studies in Buddhism.’ These initiatives are part of a broader effort to popularise the study of Indian religions, sects, history, and culture among the youth.
In other developments, JNU’s student organisation has reported potential projects aimed at addressing water scarcity on campus. Plans are underway to establish ‘Water Collection Centers’ and construct check dams. Additionally, an audit will be conducted to evaluate the facilities and issues faced by differently-abled students.
Following the tragic suicide of a contract employee, measures to improve employee safety and welfare are also being considered. These issues were discussed in a recent meeting between students and Vice-Chancellor Shantisree D. Pandit, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between the university administration and the student body to address campus concerns.
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