The International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Sustainable Development, held on March 9 and 10 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, concluded successfully with a resounding call to integrate traditional wisdom into modern education and sustainable development practices. Shaikshik Foundation in collaboration with Shivaji College, University of Delhi, and the National Council for Promotion of Sindhi Language (NCPSL) organised the two-day event which brought together over 711 delegates from 27 states, including prominent academicians, policymakers, and researchers.
Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the conference by lighting the ceremonial lamp, following a Saraswati Vandana. In his address, he highlighted India’s rich intellectual heritage and the need to preserve and integrate indigenous knowledge into contemporary academic and research frameworks. Releasing a research compilation featuring papers from scholars across the country, he emphasised the role of Indian Knowledge Systems in addressing global challenges. He also launched Sindhi language textbooks for classes 1 to 12, developed by NCPSL and NIOS, underscoring the government’s commitment to linguistic preservation. “Every language is a national language, and each one serves as a bridge to effectively implement the Indian Knowledge System across the country,” he remarked.
ABRSM National President Prof. Narayan Lal Gupta, in his presidential address, stressed the importance of including indigenous knowledge systems in mainstream education to create a self-reliant and sustainable society. Prof. Virender Bharadwaj, Principal of Shivaji College, delivered the welcome address, emphasising the relevance of integrating traditional wisdom with higher education. Guest of Honor Prof. Alok Chakrawal, Vice Chancellor of Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur, shared insights into the practical applications of indigenous knowledge in modern research.
The valedictory session was graced by Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, who reinforced the link between environmental conservation and traditional wisdom. “If we protect nature, nature will protect us,” he stated, urging collective efforts toward sustainable development.
The conference witnessed the participation of several distinguished academicians and intellectuals. Among them were Prof. Ashok K. Nagawat, Vice Chancellor of Delhi Skill University; Prof. R.K. Mittal, Vice Chancellor of Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, Lucknow; Prof. Rajesh Jangid; and Prof. Shimali, who shared their insights on integrating traditional knowledge into contemporary education. National Organising Secretary Shri Mahendra Kapoor, Joint Organising Secretary Shri G. Lakshman, and National Vice President Shri Mahendra Kumar who played key roles in facilitating discussions, were present on the occasion, and also felicitated the sessions, ensuring an engaging and insightful academic exchange. Prof. Geeta Bhatt, National General Secretary of ABRSM, conducted the proceedings of the conference with great expertise, ensuring insightful exchanges and meaningful deliberations.
The event also brought together eminent thought leaders such as senior advocate and author J. Sai Deepak, Dr. Shamika Ravi (Member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister), Prof. Sushma Yadav, Padma Shri Chamu Krishna Shastry, Prof. Ganti Murti (Convener, Indian Knowledge Tradition, Government of India), and author Prashant Pol. Their insights reinforced the importance of preserving and revitalising indigenous knowledge systems. Vice Chancellors Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar (Central University of Haryana) and Prof. Kailash Sodani (Vardhman Mahaveer Open University) contributed valuable perspectives on integrating traditional wisdom with higher education.
The conference featured three in-depth sessions where experts engaged in thought-provoking discussions on leveraging indigenous knowledge for sustainable development. With participation from over 711 delegates, including Chancellors, Vice Chancellors, academicians, and researchers, the event reinforced the significance of repositioning India as a global leader in education and sustainable growth through its rich intellectual traditions.
