PU Hosts National Seminar on “Regional Realities and National Aspirations: Development Goals, Challenges, and Opportunities”

The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), Panjab University, Chandigarh, today organised a one-day national seminar on “Regional Realities and National Aspirations: Development Goals, Challenges, and Opportunities,” with a special focus on North-Western India.

PU Hosts National Seminar on “Regional Realities and National Aspirations: Development Goals, Challenges, and Opportunities”

Chandigarh, March 20, 2025: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), Panjab University, Chandigarh, today organised a one-day national seminar on “Regional Realities and National Aspirations: Development Goals, Challenges, and Opportunities,” with a special focus on North-Western India.

Prof. R.S. Ghuman delivered the keynote address, offering an in-depth analysis of regional divisions at national and international levels. He emphasised the significance of equitable and balanced regional development in fostering national progress and mitigating the adverse effects of regionalism on a heterogeneous society. 

Director Research & Development Cell of the University, Prof. Yojna Rawat underscored the role of unity and integrity in national development, while Ms. Bhawna Gupta, IAS, highlighted the need to maintain a balance between nationalism and regionalism. 

A plenary session was held, with Prof. Kuldeep Singh as the discussant. Dr. Manmohan Singh and Prof. Sri Hari Nayudu shared their insights on Punjab’s political structure, the role of ideology, and identity in fostering harmony in a diverse society. 

The seminar featured five technical sessions- two online and three offline-where approximately 80 research papers were presented. The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including development goals, NEP 2020, the marginalisation of women, and Article 370. 

During the valedictory session, Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri deliberated on the significance of mother languages and the intersectionality of gotras. 

Prof. Sanjay Kaushik and Prof. D.K. Madaan also shared their perspectives on the topic. Prof. Harsh Gandhar extended gratitude to all the participants and presenters. 

Dr. Ravinder Kaur served as the convener of the seminar. Prof Emanuel Nahar, Prof. Madhurima Verma, Prof. Sheena Pall and Dr. Kamla were co-conveners of the seminar.      

Prof. Harsh Gandhar was the chief organiser of the event.