The Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Cell at The Assam Royal Global University has organized the following events this semester (April-May 2024)

1. Conduction of IKS course: As per the guidelines set by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Syllabus for the Undergraduate Course consists of two introductory courses, namely "Introduction to IKS-1" and "Introduction to IKS-2," each worth 3 credits. These courses are taught to undergraduate students during their 1st and 2nd semesters. Currently, more than 1400 students enrolled in the UG 1st and 2nd semester, organized into 20 groups, have completed the IKS-1 foundation course and are presently undergoing the IKS-2 foundation course.

2. Poster Launch Ceremony and Lectures on Indian Knowledge Systems, April 25, 2024:

a) Poster Launch Ceremony: The State-Level Research Paper Writing Competition – ViViBha, in partnership with Bharatiya Sikhshan Mandal, was launched during this event. This competition invites participants to submit research papers on topics related to Indian Knowledge Systems, encouraging scholarly engagement and exploration of Indian heritage, culture, and knowledge traditions.

b) Lecture on Indian Knowledge Systems: Alongside the competition launch, two distinguished lectures were organized:
I. Plenary Lecture I: Prof. (Dr.) Kameshwar Shukla, Department of Sanskrit, Gauhati University.
Title: Bharatiya Sikhshan Mandal and Indian Knowledge System

II. Plenary Lecture II: Prof. (Dr.) Uday Dixit, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Head, IKS Center, IIT Guwahati.
Title: IKS and NEP 2020

3. Interdepartmental Event: Exhibition on Culture and Heritage & Lecture Session with INTACH (May 20-22, 2024)

A. Three-day Exhibition on "Culture and Heritage"
The IKS Cell, in association with INTACH and various departments of RGU, organized an exhibition showcasing artifacts, artworks, photographs, and interactive displays, representing diverse cultural aspects, including history, art, architecture, and tourism.

B. Lecture Session (May 20, 2024)
Speaker: Ms. Vandana Manchanda, Director, INTACH.
Title: Craft Revival and its Socio-Economic Impact on Communities.
The lecture explored the resurgence of traditional artisanal practices and the socio-economic impact of craft revival on local communities.

4. Lecture Session: "Abhinaya - Folk Elements in Indian Cinema and Theatre" by Shri Pranjal Saikia (May 24, 2024)

Organizer: IKS Cell and DSW, RGU.
Speaker: Shri Pranjal Saikia, Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee.
The session explored Abhinaya (expressive performance) and its deep roots in folk traditions, storytelling, music, and dance.

5. Distinguished Lecture Session (May 27, 2024)

Organizer: IKS Cell in collaboration with the Departments of History, Architecture, and Travel & Tourism.
Speaker: Dr. Nachiket Chanchani, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
Topic: Decoding India’s Temples and the Challenges of Reconstructing Them.
The lecture focused on India's temple architecture, symbolism, and preservation challenges.

Interdisciplinary Lectures within the University:

i. Lecture I: Manuscript Studies and the Digital Humanities (May 8, 2024)
Organizer: Department of English
Speaker: Dr. Saswati Bordoloi, IKS Cell.
The talk explored how digital humanities intersect with traditional Indian manuscripts.

ii. Lecture II: Harmonizing Heritage Tourism (June 15, 2024)
Organizer: Department of Travel & Tourism.
Speaker: Dr. Saswati Bordoloi, IKS Cell.
The session discussed sustainable preservation of heritage sites through Indian Knowledge Systems.

Distinguished Lecture by the Honourable Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) S. P. Singh (June 6, 2024)

Organizer: IKS Cell, RGU.
Speaker: Prof. (Dr.) S. P. Singh.
The Vice Chancellor’s lecture highlighted the role of Indian Knowledge Systems in scientific research, emphasizing its evidence-based approach and significance for national development.