Attendees of the two-day National Seminar on February 27 at NU, Lumami along with the keynote speaker and members of the organizing committee. (Photo Courtesy: Dept. of Sociology, NU)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | February 27
A two-day National Seminar on “Social Lives of Infrastructure in North-East India: Navigating Diversity, Connectivity, and Resilience” began on February 27 at Nagaland University, Lumami. The seminar is organized by the Department of Sociology and sponsored by ICSSR, New Delhi; Nagaland University; and S. Supongmeren Jamir, Member of Parliament.
The event brings together academicians, policymakers, and researchers to discuss the role of infrastructure in enhancing connectivity, cultural resilience, and economic development in the region.
The inaugural session, held at the Department of Sociology Conference Hall, was chaired by Prof Temjensosang, Director of the Research and Development Cell at Nagaland University. The session began with a welcome address by Prof Athungo Ovung, Head of the Department of Sociology, followed by a speech from the Chief Patron, Prof Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University.
In his address, Prof Patnaik emphasized the importance of fostering interdisciplinary research and academic collaboration, while also acknowledging the role of social sciences in societal development.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof Amarjeet Singh from the Centre for North-East Studies & Policy Research at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. He highlighted the significance of infrastructure in shaping the socio-economic landscape of North-East India. Prof Singh discussed key development challenges in the region, such as logistical issues, difficult terrain, corruption, and political obstacles including insurgency and ethnic conflicts.
He also pointed out the development disparities across the country, noting that North-East India is comparatively the most disadvantaged. His address also covered the Look East/Act East Policy and criticized the limited contributions of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DONER), the North-East Council, Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), and state governments in promoting infrastructural development.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Suraj Beri, Organizing Secretary. The seminar will continue until February 28, featuring panel discussions and paper presentations on various themes related to infrastructure and society in North-East India.
