Srinagar July 22: The Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), University of Kashmir (KU), commenced a two-day national seminar on ‘The Political Dimensions of India’s Foreign Policy: State, Society and Cultural-Economic Relations with Central Asia’ in collaboration with Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR-NWRC) at the Main Campus.
The seminar, as per a KU statement, aims to examine the changing dynamics of India’s engagement with Central Asia by exploring the social, cultural and economic dimensions of these relationships. It seeks to provide a platform for academics, researchers and policymakers to deliberate on contemporary developments and emerging opportunities in India’s ties with the region.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan while referring to the theme of the seminar said that the study of foreign policy requires continuous academic engagement in view of evolving regional and global realities.
“Universities have an important responsibility to facilitate informed discussions on issues of regional and international significance. Such academic forums encourage research, dialogue and a deeper understanding of India’s engagement with neighbouring regions and beyond,” she said.
Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said that Central Asia continues to occupy an important place in India’s strategic and cultural outlook and interdisciplinary research can contribute to a better understanding of the historical and contemporary dimensions of these relationships.
Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, said that such seminars provide valuable opportunities for scholars and students to engage with diverse perspectives on global affairs.
Dean, School of Social Sciences KU, Prof. Sabeha Mufti, emphasized the need for sustained research on India’s evolving relations with Central Asia, noting that academic institutions have an important role in generating evidence-based scholarship on regional and international issues.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Director, CCAS KU and Convenor of the seminar Prof. Wahid Nasaru, outlined the objectives of the seminar. He said the event has brought together scholars from different parts of the country to deliberate on the cultural and economic dimensions of India’s engagement with Central Asia and to promote meaningful academic exchange in the field.
The two-day seminar features keynote lectures, research paper presentations, panel discussions and interactive sessions focusing on various aspects of India’s foreign policy and its relations with Central Asia.
The latest edition of ‘Central Asian Digest’ was also released on the occassion.
The proceedings of the inaugural session were conducted by Dr. Zohra Batul, faculty at CCAS KU and the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Parvana Bhatt, faculty at CCAS KU.
