As an initiative of a the UGC-STRIDE (Scheme for Trans-disciplinary Research for India's Developing Economy) project implemented at Manipur University’s department of Dance and Music, a one day national discourse on “Cultural Identity in State-Diaspora Relations” was held on Tuesday at the Manipur University in Imphal.
The main objective of the discourse is to create a conceptual framework with regards to diaspora as mediators or bridges of trans-nationalities, said co-convenor of the programme I Gambhir Singh while delivering the keynote address of the discourse.
He pointed out that diaspora as transmitters of values of pluralism, hybridity and globalisation need to be thoroughly engaged by bringing in the potential positionality of the community in sustaining peaceful and harmonious relations, as a key factor of cultural bindings.
So the theme of the discourse is to culturally articulate the significance of diaspora and its relation in contemporary global society, he added.
The programme aims to promote innovative culture for trans disciplinary research especially in universities and colleges and for inclusive innovations with regard to creation, development and integration of new ideas, concepts and practices of public good and strengthening civil society, the co-convenor said.
He also stated that STRIDE also tries to focus on solution driven efforts by addressing needs of local regional communities and national priorities.
During the programme, Prof W Nabakumar Singh of the department of Anthropology, MU spoke on the topic "Globalisation, Hybridity and Diaspora". Prof Thangjam Robert Singh head of dept of Biotechnology, Mizoram University spoke on the topic "Science diasporas: bridge between nations for development" where retired IAS RK Nimai Singh attended as observer.
The function was also attended by vice-chancellor of Mizoram University Krothapalli Raja Surya Sambasiva Rao as chief guest, vice-chancellor of MU N. Lokendra Singh as president and registrar of MU W Chandbabu Singh as guest of honour.
