New Delhi, Mar 5
The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), in collaboration with Dwarka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College, Chennai, successfully organized a one-day National Workshop on ‘Capacity Building in Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS): Documentation, Validation, and Communication’. This event was part of CSIR-NIScPR’s national initiative SVASTIK (Scientifically Validated Societal Traditional Knowledge), which aims to promote scientifically validated Indian traditional knowledge.
The workshop brought together faculty members, scientists, teachers, and science communicators to discuss the documentation, validation, and dissemination of IKS.
Key Highlights of the Workshop
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Inauguration & Keynote Address:
The event was inaugurated by Padma Shri Prof. M. D. Srinivas, along with Dr. K. Vijayalakshmi, Dr. S. Santhosh Baboo, and other distinguished experts. Prof. Srinivas emphasized India’s rich intellectual heritage and the need to bridge ancient knowledge with modern advancements. -
Technical Sessions:
The first session, chaired by Prof. M. S. Sriram, featured talks on India’s Science & Technology Heritage.- Dr. K. Vijayalakshmi discussed indigenous agricultural knowledge and the importance of conserving traditional rice varieties.
- Dr. V. Aarthi spoke about Traditional Siddha Medicine and ways to integrate it with modern science.
- Dr. Charu Lata highlighted the ongoing activities of SVASTIK and challenges in communicating IKS.
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Hands-on Training:
Dr. Paramananda Barman and Team SVASTIK conducted a session on effective science communication, teaching participants how to design infographics and short videos to share knowledge. -
Exhibition & Feedback:
An exhibition of SVASTIK publications and stories was displayed, and attendees shared their learning experiences during the feedback session.
The workshop successfully emphasized the integration of Indian traditional knowledge with modern science. Dr. Uthra Dorairajan expressed gratitude to all participants and reiterated the importance of such initiatives in preserving and promoting India’s scientific heritage.
(Source: PIB)