Team TrickyScribe: The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), in collaboration with Dwarka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College, Chennai, successfully hosted a one-day National Workshop on Capacity Building in Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS): Documentation, Validation, and Communication. Organized under the national initiative SVASTIK (Scientifically Validated Societal Traditional Knowledge), the event focused on communicating India’s scientifically validated traditional knowledge to society.
A Grand Inauguration with Eminent Personalities
The workshop was inaugurated by Padma Shri Prof M D Srinivas, Chairman, Centre for Policy Research, Chennai. The event was also graced by Dr K Vijayalakshmi, Research Director, Centre for Indian Knowledge System, Dr S. Santhosh Baboo, Principal of DDGD Vaishnav College, and coordinators from CSIR-NIScPR and DDGD Vaishnav College.
Dr Uthra Dorairajan, Associate Professor, DDGD Vaishnav College, warmly welcomed the speakers and participants, emphasizing the integration of Indian traditional knowledge with modern science. Dr Santhosh Baboo highlighted the college’s ongoing initiatives to promote IKS and its significance in education.
Keynote Address: India’s Rich Scientific Heritage
In his keynote address, Padma Shri Prof M D Srinivas, a renowned theoretical physicist, delved into India’s deep-rooted intellectual traditions. He stressed the relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems in modern science and advocated for collaborative efforts to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary advancements.
Exploring India’s Scientific and Technological Heritage
The first technical session, chaired by Prof M S Sriram, President, Prof K V Sarma Research Foundation, focused on India’s Science & Technology Heritage.
• Dr K Vijayalakshmi spoke on indigenous knowledge in agriculture, underlining the importance of preserving traditional rice landraces for sustainable development.
• Dr V Aarthi, Research Officer (Siddha), elaborated on Traditional Siddha Medicine and how it can be integrated with modern sciences.
• Dr Charu Lata, Principal Scientist and Coordinator, SVASTIK, shared insights into ongoing efforts to disseminate IKS to the masses and the challenges in validating traditional knowledge.
Hands-On Training: Communicating Science Effectively
The second session focused on Hands-on Training in IKS Communication, led by Dr Paramananda Barman, Senior Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR, and Team SVASTIK. The session provided interactive learning experiences on effective science communication strategies. Participants were introduced to various tools for designing infographics and creating short videos to communicate Indian Knowledge Systems.
A Step Toward Preserving India’s Scientific Heritage
The workshop concluded with a feedback session, where participants shared their experiences and key takeaways. An exhibition of SVASTIK stories and publications was also displayed for dignitaries and attendees.
Dr Uthra Dorairajan expressed gratitude to all participants and underscored the significance of such initiatives in preserving and promoting India’s scientific legacy.
With its rich knowledge base spanning centuries, India stands at the crossroads of integrating its ancient wisdom with modern science. The workshop reaffirmed the importance of documenting, validating, and effectively communicating this knowledge for future generations.
Total Views: 2,21,113
