The Department of Languages, Culture & Society, SRMIST, organised a Two-Day Online Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on “Integrating Indian Knowledge Systems into Teaching and Research”, aligned with the vision of NEP 2020. The event brought together eminent scholars to explore the relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) in modern education and research, attracting around 100 participants from across disciplines.
The inaugural session began with Prof. L. Kavitha Nair, Head of the Department of Languages, Culture & Society, delivering the Welcome Address, setting the tone for the two-day programme. Then the Presidential Address was given by Dr. Nitin Madhusudan Nagarkar, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Medical & Health Sciences), SRMIST, who highlighted the contributions of IKS to medical science and the potential of integrating traditional wisdom with modern healthcare. Chief Guest Dr. Richa Chopra from IIT Kharagpur spoke on the soul and eternal truths of life, drawing from Indian mythology in a powerful storytelling style that inspired deep reflection among participants.
On the first day, Sri Raghava Krishna, Founder & CEO of Brhat, discussed strategies for embedding IKS into curricula and research while linking heritage with innovation. Dr. A. Sreenivasa Sarma from S-VYASA University presented India’s remarkable contributions to mathematics and astronomy and their continued relevance today. Dr. Ketu Ramachandrasekhar of Siddhanta Knowledge Foundation explored the role of symbols and epics in shaping identity through Indian art forms.
The second day featured Dr. Subrahmanya Kumar K from TDU, Bangalore, who shared practical Ayurvedic wellness principles and ways to integrate indigenous medical systems with modern healthcare. This was followed by Dr. Pankaj Saxena, Co-founder of Brhat, who examined temple architecture as a living ecosystem combining art, science, spirituality, and sustainability.
The valedictory session included reflections from Dr. Hema Natarajan, Associate Professor, Cambridge Professional Development Centre, SRMIST, who appreciated the diversity and depth of the FDP. Dr. Pankaj Saxena expressed gratitude for the collaboration. The programme was smoothly coordinated by Dr. Sulagna Mohanty and Dr. Bhargavi S, with Dr. Mohanty presenting the FDP report and Dr. Bhargavi delivering the Vote of Thanks.
The FDP successfully blended tradition with contemporary relevance, leaving participants inspired to incorporate IKS into their academic and professional pursuits while strengthening their appreciation for India’s intellectual heritage.
