To promote academic discussions on the evolving cultural, economic, and social landscape of the Trans-Himalayan region, the Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), University of Kashmir (KU), hosted a two-day international conference on 'Trans-Himalayan Borderlands: Dynamics of Connectivity, Culture, and Change."
Scholars and academicians from prestigious institutions in India, including JNU, Pondicherry University, and Jamia Millia Islamia participated, besides International experts and academics from France, Australia, and Italy who joined the conference in online mode
Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, who was the chief guest at the inaugural session, highlighted the strategic significance of trans-himalayan borderlands in shaping regional histories, trade networks, and socio-political dynamics.
“Conferences like these help us deepen our understanding of the intricate connections that have historically defined the Himalayan region and its neighboring cultures,” she said.
Keynote speaker, Prof. Parth Chauhan, Head, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IISER Mohali, provided a detailed analysis of prehistoric migrations, technological advancements, and environmental interactions in Kashmir and the trans-himalayas.
Director, India Central Asia Foundation and Head, MERI Centre of International Studies, New Delhi, Prof. Ramakant Dwivedi, in his special remarks, underscored the historical trade and cultural exchanges between South and Central Asia, emphasizing their relevance in contemporary times.
A special lecture by Prof. Vijay Sathe, Deccan College, Pune, explored palaeontology, horticulture, and human evolution in the Himalayan borderlands, and shed light on the ecological and anthropological aspects of the region.
Earlier Director CCAS KU Prof. Tabasum Firdous who is also Convener of the conference welcomed the participants and highlighted the aims and objectives of the program.
Dr. Mohammad Ajmal Shah, Coordinator of the Conference and faculty at CCAS KU delivered the formal vote of thanks at the inaugural session.