Workshop-cum-training programme on “Research Methodology in Social Sciences for Research Scholars/Faculty Members” 

Chandigarh, February 10, 2025: A two-week workshop-cum-training programme on “Research Methodology in Social Sciences for Research Scholars/Faculty Members” commenced at Panjab University, here today. The workshop will conclude on  February 20th, 2025.

The prestigious workshop-cum-training programme was inaugurated at ICSSR-North Western Regional Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh, by the Key Note address of Prof. Ashwani Kumar, School of Development Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. 

In his keynote address, Prof. Ashwani highlighted the role of field survey/work in the research methodology. Any research work without the first-hand field experience won’t produce the robust policy implications. He emphasised on discovery of something from your native point of view. He said, no one is a God of Social Science and anyone can be challenged with the decent field-based research. He highlighted rivalry between field-based researchers/participator social scientist and empirical based researchers. So, a need of combination of the two is needed through an encouraged use of participatory econometrics. He elaborated that how the neural networks are pivotal in identifying complex patterns, solving intricate challenges, and adapting to dynamic environments as the artificial intelligence is the future and it will cover the whole world in 10-15 years. An intersection of the post-humanism approach to social science is need of hour that not only keeps the human being into centre but also talks about the technology-human, human-animal, and human environment interaction.

Prof. Yojna Rawat, Director, Research and Development Cell, Panjab University, Chandigarh, presided over the event as Chief Guest expressed that the human life if being shaped by AI. while Dr. Subhash Sharma, Former Fellow, Panjab University, Chandigarh, were invited as the Guest of Honour stated that data used in research should be realistic which should be of use for the policy makers.
 
Prof Upasna Joshi Sethi, Honorary Director, ICSSR-NW Regional Centre, Panjab University, Chandigarh introduced the theme of workshop, the invited distinguished guests to the participants and activities of the Regional Centre. The Director felt that the scholars will have an opportunity to engage in peer discussions and receive personalised feedback on their ongoing research. 

This programme will help to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, empowering the scholars to conduct high quality impactful research. She put forth the various achievements of the key note speaker as a key policy planner, a political scientist, and an artist were highlighted.

Post the keynote address, the Chief guest addressed the audience followed by an address of Guest of Honour, Dr. Subhash Sharma. The inaugural session ended with National Anthem after the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Nitin Arora, Department of Economics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, who is acting as Coordinator of Workshop.