Two-Day National Conference on “Kashmir and Central Asia: Revisiting Links and Legacies”

To highlight the contributions of the Central Asian region to the global culture, sciences, arts, and philosophy with special reference to Kashmir in shaping knowledge across diverse domains and guiding civilizations worldwide, the Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), Kashmir University (KU) Wednesday inaugurated a two-day national seminar here.

The seminar provides a platform for scholarly exchange and collaboration, furthering the understanding of the historical and cultural ties between Kashmir and Central Asia.

Titled ‘Kashmir and Central Asia: Revisiting Linkages and Legacies’, the inaugural ceremony witnessed the inking of an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) between Kashmir University (through CCAS) and India Central Asia Foundation (ICAF), New Delhi for the promotion of research vis-à-vis the issues pertaining to Central Asia. 

On the occasion, the Vice Chancellor of Kashmir University, Prof Nilofer Khan emphasised that the collaboration would foster increased exploration of linkages between Central Asia and Kashmir.

She underscored the potential for tourism, craft exchange and scholarly collaboration between the two regions. “A comprehensive and multidisciplinary work is the need of the hour and this MoU will guide us in strengthening the future roadmap,” she added.

She reiterated the varsity’s commitment to encouraging such endeavors while hoping for good recommendations from the two-day seminar to make the MoU workable.

President ICAF, Ashok Kumar Sharma, while highlighting the genetic and linguistic linkages between Central Asia and Kashmir encouraged scholars to delve deeper into this connection by exploring relevant literature.

While referring to the MoU, the Director of ICAF, Dr Ramakant Dwivedi ensured tangible results from the proposed cooperation. “You know the language, you have the nuanced understanding of the region and ICAF will support all your scholarly pursuits,” he added.

Chairman, Centre of Persian and Central Asian Studies School of Language, Literature and Culture Studies, Jawahar Nehru University (JNU), Prof Akhlaque A Ahan in his keynote address stated that Central Asia has been the cradle of civilizations for thousands of years. 

 “We have seen deep linguistic and literary linkages throughout history and we need to work towards reconnecting, revitalising and rejuvenating connections with Central Asia,” he added.

Earlier in her welcome address, Director CCAS and seminar convenor, Prof Tabasum Firdous outlined the objectives of the seminar while hoping for fruitful deliberations during the two-day event.

Two books: ‘Central Asia: Geopolitical Dynamics and Shifting Political Patterns’ (edited volume) by Professor Tabasum Firdous and Dr Fozia Jan and ‘Gulstan-e-Illm-O-Fikr’ authored by Dr Abid Gulzar were released on the occasion. Additionally, the 29th volume of the Central Asian Journal was released along with the 2023 newsletter, highlighting the academic activities and achievements of the centre.

Senior Assistant Professor, CCAS, Dr Abid Gulzar conducted the proceedings of the inaugural function while Dr Ajmal Shah delivered the formal vote of thanks.