To explore the evolving social dynamics, cultural shifts, and modern influences in Kashmir and Ladakh, the Centre for Central Asian Studies (CCAS), University of Kashmir (KU), organized a one-day national seminar on ‘Continuity and Change: Some Sociological Insights from Kashmir and Ladakh’ here on Thursday.

The seminar was sponsored by the ICSSR North-Western Regional Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh. It focused on the evolving social structures, cultural transformations, and traditional practices in Kashmir and Ladakh.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, underscored the importance of studying societal transformation in these regions.

“Understanding how traditional societies evolve in response to modern influences is crucial for meaningful academic discourse. This seminar provides a platform for scholars and students to critically analyze these transitions,” she said.

In his keynote address, former Director CCAS KU, Prof. Aijaz Banday, stated that Kashmiri and Ladakhi societies have undergone tremendous transformations. “The study of cultural identity, evolving norms, and shifting social patterns is essential for sociologists and researchers,” he said.

Prof. Syed Zainuddin, Department of Sociology, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) presented an insightful perspective on gender roles, particularly within the institution of marriage in Kashmiri society. He highlighted how socio-economic changes have influenced traditional marital customs and expectations over time.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Director CCAS KU, Prof. Tabassum Firdous, highlighted the seminar's importance in examining the relationship between tradition and change in shaping societal norms.

Scholars and academicians from various higher educational institutions across the country participated in the seminar, with many joining through hybrid mode.

The technical sessions of the seminar included engaging discussions from experts and scholars, providing fresh sociological perspectives into the region’s changing landscape.

The inaugural session was attended by various heads of departments, faculty members, research scholars, and students of the university. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Mumtaz Yatoo, faculty at CCAS KU.