CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR), New Delhi, and Gurugram University jointly hosted the International Conference on Communication and Dissemination of Traditional Knowledge (CDTK-2024) at Gurugram University, Gurugram on 13-14 November 2024. The conference was inaugurated on 13 November 2024.
During the inaugural of the conference, Prof. Dinesh Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Gurugram University, delivered the welcome address, setting the stage for the conference, conveyed his excitement regarding the discussions and deliberations focused on Indian cultural legacies and their adaptation to the requirements of the modern world. Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, New Delhi, in her address, provided an overview of SVASTIK (Scientifically Validated Traditional Knowledge), highlighting its significance in promoting scientifically validated Indian traditional knowledge. SVASTIK, a national initiative, is coordinated by CSIR-NIScPR. The initiative was launched to communicate scientifically validated traditional knowledge of India to society. Prof. Aggarwal added that NIScPR has disseminated socially engaging SVASTIK stories in 17 Indian languages via social media. Moreover, the two SVASTIK publications provide authenticated stories on traditional knowledge, inspiring young students to explore science.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Dr Shekhar C Mande, Distinguished Professor, Savitribai Phule Pune University and Former Director General CSIR & Secretary DSIR, Government of India. Dr Mande emphasised the critical role of combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches, citing instances where the international community has acknowledged the achievements of Indian scholars. CSIR-NIScPR has empowered traditional knowledge, giving it a global voice. Notably, William Dalrymple’s new book, The Golden Road, highlights India’s rich scientific heritage. Our ancient civilisation excelled in metallurgy, mathematics, and medicine, demonstrating profound scientific principles deeply rooted in Indian culture. SVASTIK’s endeavour to promote awareness of Indian traditions in science is truly commendable.
Prof. KK Aggarwal, President, South Asian University, New Delhi (India), addressed the gathering as the Chief Guest, emphasising the need for interdisciplinary research and collaboration where traditional knowledge is applied effectively and requires validation immediately from the modern world, which SVASTIK facilitates. He further added that our goal should be to share this knowledge with the world rather than disowning our heritage.
The inaugural session of the International Conference (CDTK-2024) also witnessed the release of the Souvenir & Abstract book and two digital flipbooks, Treasure of Indian Traditions: A Journey through Scientifically Validated Indian Traditional Knowledge in Hindi and Punjabi languages.
The first day of the conference also featured diverse sessions, including discussions on integrating traditional pedagogies into modern education, ethics in traditional knowledge research, and the science behind traditional agriculture and cuisine. Additional sessions explored sustainable traditional architecture, integrating ancient sciences into modern disciplines, and effective communication of traditional knowledge through the “Paramparik Gyan Sanchar: SVASTIK workshop”.
The second day has featured remaining compelling sessions that delve deep into the realms of traditional knowledge research and communication. The Arogya Vidya session was chaired by Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan, National Research Professor-AYUSH, SBPPU, Pune, who urged healthcare professionals to prioritise patient welfare above personal egos and adopt the best practices for humanity’s benefit. Dr Rabinarayan Acharya DG, CCRAS, New Delhi, stressed the need for an inclusive, evidence-based healthcare framework. He further discussed integrating AYUSH systems and cross-referrals in tertiary healthcare. Dr N Zaheer Ahmed, DG, CCRUM, New Delhi, highlighted the importance of research in drug quality and traditional remedies.
Dr NJ Muthukumar DG, CCRS, Chennai, emphasised the revival of Siddha practices, and CCRS introduced digital tools to enhance healthcare communication. The session on “Jal, Paristhitiki Evam Paryavaran” was chaired by Dr Virendra M Tiwari, Director, CSIR-NEIST, and featured Prof. Saroj K Barik, Professor, NEHU Shillong, who discussed Traditional Ecological Knowledge and its applications in biodiversity, forest conservation, and sustainable practices using examples from Northeast India. He emphasised sustainable bamboo management by referencing “Asha Van” and the significance of sacred groves.
Prof. Sharad Jain, Former Director, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, explored ancient India’s advancements in hydrology, tracing knowledge to the Indus Valley Civilisation and referencing texts like the Rig Veda and Arthashastra. He highlighted historical water management structures and techniques, showcasing India’s rich hydrologic heritage and its connection to civilisation and sustainability. The session on “Reviving Ancient Healing Traditions and Integration into Modern Healthcare: Yoga, Homeopathy & Sowa Rigpa” was chaired by Dr A Raghu, Deputy Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, with Dr Yogita Munjal, Director, Directorate of AYUSH, as co-chair.
Dr A Raghu addressed the efforts of the Indian government in disseminating traditional knowledge across various sectors, highlighting the commitment to share this wisdom with the international community. Dr Sunil S Ramteke, Deputy Director General, CCRH, New Delhi, discussed the operational principles of homeopathy, illustrating them with examples of various plants and their medicinal benefits. Dr IN Acharya, from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga in New Delhi, emphasised the therapeutic effects of pranayama in managing contemporary stress.
Furthermore, Dr Padma Gurmet, Director of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa in Leh, underscored the importance of Sowa Rigpa in the Himalayan region, particularly its ties to Indian Buddhism. Prof. Vibha Tripathi, Former Head & Emeritus Professor, BHU, Varanasi, opened the panel discussion on Scientific Validation of Traditional Knowledge: Challenges and the Way Forward. The panellist, Prof. (Dr) Rama Jayasundar, Prof. & Head, NMR Division, AIIMS, New Delhi, highlighted three major objectives of research that are validation for providing the evidence(s), use of information from traditional knowledge in modern science like drug discovery, and research to improve the healthcare system. Dr Rabindra N Padariya, Joint Director (Extension), IARI, New Delhi, highlighted the authentication of traditional agricultural knowledge that requires interdisciplinary collaboration, community-based validation, digitalisation, scientific incentives, NGO partnerships and University-level research. About 400 delegates engaged in both poster and oral presentations, demonstrating their research efforts.
Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR, opened the valedictory session by warmly welcoming everyone and expressing gratitude for their contribution to the success of the event. She extended a special welcome to the Chief Guest, Prof. Anil Joshi, HESCO, Dehradun, who graciously attended at short notice.
Prof. Dinesh Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Gurugram University, offered his congratulations to the entire team for their collective efforts in making the conference a success. He highlighted the urgency of sustainability, expressing concern that material possessions cannot shield us from environmental degradation unless we commit to sustainable practices.
The Chief Guest of the session Padma Bhushan Prof. Anil P Joshi addressed the audience, stressing the importance of remembering and preserving Indian traditions. He urged attendees to be mindful of their cultural heritage while navigating the influences of the Western world. Prof. Vibha Tripathi emphasised harmonising traditional knowledge with contemporary science for a better future.
Dr Charu Lata summarised the deliberations of the conference. Dr Dhirender Kaushik, Professor at Gurugram University, expressed his heartfelt thanks to all the dignitaries and delegates for their invaluable contributions to the conference. He emphasised the collaborative efforts that led to the event’s success and encouraged continued engagement in future initiatives. This valedictory session reflected the conference’s achievements and reinforced the importance of sustainability and tradition in India.
