Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Srinagar/ A one-day ‘Young Thinkers Meet’ was organized by HPRF (Himalayan Policy and Research Foundation) at Government College of Education, Srinagar, in which more than fifty research scholars from different regions including the Valley participated. Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale attended the concluding session as the chief guest.
Research papers on governance, disaster management, peace education, rural economy, Himalayan ecosystem, civilization and culture and contemporary geo-economic issues were presented at the event. On the occasion, the speakers stressed the need to promote policy-oriented research among young researchers and to conduct academic efforts in line with the social, economic, cultural and environmental realities of the region.
The inaugural session was presided over by Professor Muhammad Mubeen, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, who highlighted the importance of conserving Himalayan ecosystem, especially lakes, water bodies, forests and natural resources. Professor Seema Naz, Principal, Government College of Education, was the guest of honour, while Dr. Tatan, Dr. Wajahat and HPRF Director Fazil Ali Dar also guided the participants.
In the second session, Dr. Zahid Sultan gave a detailed presentation on evidence-based policy making, quality research analysis and building authentic knowledge bases. Later, selected researchers presented their research papers before a jury of experts. The session was chaired by Professor A. Ravindra Nath, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir, who highlighted the importance of these topics for the scientific, cultural and environmental future of the Himalayan region.
During the event, an MoU was signed between HPRF and ARNI University for promoting academic cooperation, joint research, scholarly exchange and capacity building. An introductory booklet of HPRF was also released on the occasion.
In his address, HPRF Founding Director Surendra Ambardar said that the formation of a strong local think tank comprising young writers, researchers and intellectuals is the need of the hour to promote the intellectual and intellectual capital in the Himalayan region. He also stressed the need for setting up a “Transcendental Knowledge Center” in Kashmir.
Union Minister of State Ramdas Athawale appreciated the efforts of the foundation and assured to connect young researchers with various welfare schemes of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and ensure cooperation with other ministries.
At the closing ceremony, the researchers who presented the three best research papers were awarded. HPRF Media Management Director Dr. Pirzada Munir said that encouraging young researchers will prepare such academic leaders who will promote realistic narratives based on research and authentic evidence. At the end of the ceremony, Convener Pir Gulzar presented a vote of thanks, after which the national anthem was played.
