By: Alia Kashmiri
Ganderbal: The Internal Committee (IC) of the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with the Department of English, School of Languages, organised a one-day national-level workshop on “Women and Society: Revisiting Indian Knowledge Systems” at the university’s Tulmulla campus on Friday.
The workshop focused on women’s role in society, their dignity and empowerment, and their contributions to India’s intellectual and cultural traditions. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
In her opening remarks, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, Presiding Officer of the Internal Committee and Dean of the School of Languages, said the committee was committed to using available opportunities for the benefit of students, scholars, faculty and staff.
She said the workshop was organised in collaboration with the Department of English to give students and scholars an opportunity to engage with leading women academicians and administrators on the theme of women and society from the perspective of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS).
Prof. Tiwari also highlighted the importance of awareness about rights and contemporary social realities while connecting these issues with India’s intellectual heritage.
She said the programme provided a platform for knowledge-sharing and open discussion and aimed to explore how women have contributed to nation-building and what is needed to support their continued contribution to society.
Prof. Tiwari expressed gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath for his continued support and guidance in organising such programmes.
Women’s dignity and self-respect discussed
In her detailed presentation, Prof. Vandana Sharma, Professor of English and Dean, School of Languages, Central University of Jammu, spoke about women’s dignity and self-respect.
Using the metaphor of a river, she explained that a meaningful life requires a clear purpose, perseverance during difficult circumstances and commitment to one’s goals.
Prof. Sharma also discussed the relationship between masculine and feminine principles in Indian knowledge traditions, describing them as complementary rather than competitive.
She highlighted the intellectual, spiritual, literary and social contributions of women across different periods, referring to figures including Lalleshwari, Lopamudra, Gargi, Maitreyi, Akka Mahadevi, Mirabai, Razia Sultana, Savitribai Phule, Fatima Sheikh, Pandita Ramabai and Sarojini Naidu, as well as women pioneers in science and other fields.
Emphasising the importance of gender sensitivity, Prof. Sharma urged students to recognise their potential and move beyond limiting stereotypes.
Keynote address on women’s empowerment
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Geeta Singh, Professor and Director of CPDHE, Delhi University, spoke about the importance of recognising women’s intellectual and cultural presence in Indian knowledge traditions.
She connected Kashmir’s heritage with the wider Indian knowledge landscape, referring to Sharda Peeth as a historic centre of learning and highlighting the legacy of women such as Lalleshwari.
Speaking about women’s empowerment, Prof. Singh said self-awareness was closely linked to empowerment. She encouraged young people to recognise their abilities and contribute positively to society.
She also referred to examples from Vedic and later traditions to highlight women’s engagement with education, philosophy, literature and social life.
Prof. Singh said educational institutions could play an important role in helping young people realise their potential by creating spaces for dialogue, reflection and learning.
Member of the Internal Committee Dr Mir Insha Farooq conducted the programme, while Dr Sunil Kumar Mannil, also a member of the committee, proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme was issued by the Public Relations Officer, Central University of Kashmir.
You Might Also Like:
Education In Kashmir with Complete Statistics
TCS Nashik ‘Conversion’ Scandal: Accused Nida Khan Suspended as Sexual Harassment and Coercion Probe Intensifies