JAMMU: Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the Himalayas, a transformative dialogue unfolds at the International Conference on Identity, Culture, Development, and Environment. This esteemed gathering serves as a vital forum for interdisciplinary collaboration, addressing the intricate tapestry of challenges and opportunities that define this unique region.
Spearheading this initiative is Dr. Renuka Thapliyal, the Chief Patron - International Conference on Identity, Culture, Development, and Environment in the Himalayas: Challenges and Future Prospects, whose unwavering commitment to sustainable development and environmental preservation has galvanized experts, researchers, and practitioners from around the world.
The conference, scheduled for 13th and 14th August 2024, will be held virtually on the 13th and offline at Government College Banjar, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh on the 14th. This dual-mode event underscores not only the significance of the gathering but also the collaborative spirit aimed at advancing understanding and addressing pressing issues facing the Himalayan landscape.
Organized by Government College Banjar (NAAC Accredited) Himachal Pradesh, the conference promises to be a cornerstone in the discourse on Himalayan identity, culture, and sustainable development.
Principal, Government College Banjar, Dr. Thapliyal's illustrious career as a scholar and environmentalist informs the conference's mission to explore the complex dynamics of the Himalayas. Under her guidance, the event aims to foster innovative solutions and robust academic discourse that can significantly influence the region's future trajectory.
In an exclusive online interview conducted by Ajmer Alam Wani, Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org), Dr. Thapliyal's visionary perspective unfolds as she discusses the motivations behind the upcoming conference and its ambitious goals.
Delving deep into her insights, the interview unveils the profound significance of this pivotal event. Dr. Thapliyal's reflections not only underscore the conference's aim to foster collaboration but also highlight its pivotal role in advancing understanding and addressing critical challenges in the Himalayan landscape.
Join us as we engage with Dr. Renuka Thapliyal to uncover the inspirations and aspirations that underpin this groundbreaking conference, poised to illuminate pathways toward sustainable growth and enriched scholarly engagement in the Himalayas.
1. Dr. Renuka, could you share what inspired the organization of the International Conference on Identity, Culture, Development, and Environment in the Himalayas? Additionally, what are the primary objectives that you aim to achieve through this conference?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: I think it is significant to organize academic activities for the enrichment of the knowledge of the academic community and the students of the institution. It is very important to provide a global academic platform for all the stakeholders and the academic advancement of the institution. This thing motivated me to organize the event. The primary objective is to be a keen observer of the upcoming new areas of research and their challenges for society in the chosen themes of the conference.
2. Could you elaborate on how this conference aims to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in the Himalayan region?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: We have kept the themes very broad and multidisciplinary. Researchers from different academic backgrounds can present their research outcomes at the conference to address the challenges and opportunities in the Himalayan region.
3. The conference covers a broad spectrum of subthemes, from climate change to financial digital literacy in mountain society. How were these specific subthemes chosen, and what is their significance in the context of the Himalayas?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The title of the conference has itself general connotations covering the broader area of the conference, and in sub-themes, it is tried to cover the specific area. The significance is to bring the research outcome into this broader and specific theme of the conference.
4. Climate change in the Himalayas is one of the key subthemes. What specific challenges related to climate change will the conference address, and what outcomes do you hope to achieve?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: Climate change in itself is a very broad theme. We expect to discuss the changing pattern of precipitation, rising temperature, and increase of extreme activities further affecting biodiversity and all other ecological and human aspects of the Himalayan ecosystem. We are inviting you to read the papers related to climate change and future threats to mountain society. I hope the outcome will be more specific to meet the challenges facing society in the present time.
5. The theme of sustainable development is critical for the Himalayas. How do you envision this conference contributing to the sustainable development of the region?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: Since my research area is the sustainability of fragile Himalayan ecology, especially urban areas, I hope the papers will come with the research outcome of sustainable development in the Himalayas. It is a very crucial theme of the conference.
6. Development and social exclusion is a significant concern in the Himalayas. How does the conference plan to address issues of social exclusion and its impacts on the local communities?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The issue of development and social exclusion is very significant. Due importance has been given by including various sub-themes related to development and social exclusion.
7. Natural disasters are frequent in the Himalayan region. What strategies and solutions will be discussed at the conference to mitigate and manage natural disasters effectively?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: Definitely, it is a very important topic at the present time. The roadmap will be developed to mitigate these types of disasters effectively.
8. The conference includes discussions on development and challenges to tribal culture. What are some of the primary cultural challenges faced by tribal communities in the Himalayas, and how will the conference address these?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The tribal society faces an identity crisis as well as economic backwardness. They also face livelihood issues and there is a clash of traditional institutions with the present democratic setup. The conference will try to dwell on these issues.
9. How does the conference intend to explore and address the transformation of traditional socio-political structures in the Himalayan region?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The conference will focus on the continuity and changes in traditional social structures to identify current challenges.
10. Can you provide insights into the key speakers and panelists who will be participating in the conference, and what unique perspectives they bring?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The key speakers and panelists will provide unique perspectives on the different issues in the Himalayas. We are trying to contact scholars who have already contributed to the literature, especially in Mountainous ecology and at the same time young minds with their innovative ideas and insights.
11. What kind of contributions and participation are you expecting from the scholars, researchers, and practitioners attending the conference?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: I hope they will come with new research papers that add value and contribute to literature and society.
12. As the Government College Banjar is affiliated with Sardar Patel University. Is University playing any role roles and contributions in organizing this event?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The college is only affiliated with the University. The college has sole responsibility for organizing the event. We are not collaborating with any other organization.
13. What are the key challenges you faced in organizing an international conference of this scale, and how were they overcome?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: Well, it seems difficult to organize and bring things in a systematic way. This is a rural area and such type of event is being organized here for the first time. But we are trying to work as a team and overcome all the barriers. I hope to get cooperation from all.
14. The conference involves both virtual and offline modes. How are you managing the logistics and coordination to ensure a seamless experience for all participants?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: Well, it is a difficult task to manage things. I am optimistic that our teamwork will result in smooth management. We have tried to increase our ICT infrastructure over the years and certainly, it will help us in managing everything.
15. How do you foresee the discussions and outcomes of this conference influencing policy-making and development strategies in the Himalayan region?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: They will be published in the edited volume with an ISBN.
16. What follow-up actions and initiatives are planned post-conference to ensure the implementation of the ideas and solutions discussed?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The proposed outcome of the conference will be sent to the Government of Himachal Pradesh.
17. How can this conference serve as a catalyst for future research and collaboration among institutions and researchers focused on the Himalayas?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: At the academic level, this conference provides a platform for discussing all issues.
18. Government College Banjar plays a crucial role in the local community. How does hosting this conference align with the college’s mission and its impact on the local community?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: I will try to involve the local community to create awareness about the challenges in the Himalayas. Of course, students of the college will actively participate to align with the mission of the college in providing academic opportunities to students. Other executive bodies will be engaged to spread awareness.
19. What opportunities does this conference create for the students and faculty of Government College Banjar in terms of learning, research, and professional development?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: The students and teachers will receive new ideas related to the topic of the conference, which will be helpful for their knowledge enrichment. This conference will add to the progress of the institute.
20. What are your long-term aspirations for the International Conference on Identity, Culture, Development, and Environment in the Himalayas, and how do you envision its growth in the coming years?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: I am looking forward to the conference's outcome being published in a reputed publication in the near future.
21. Finally, how can interested researchers, scholars, and practitioners contribute to and participate in future conferences organized by Government College Banjar?
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal: They can always come with new ideas and innovations in their respective fields.
This interview highlights Dr. Renuka Thapliyal's dedication and vision for the sustainable development and preservation of the Himalayan region. Her insights provide a comprehensive understanding of the conference's goals and the impact it aims to achieve, offering a platform for meaningful discourse and collaboration.
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Know more about Dr. Renuka Thapliyal
Dr. Renuka Thapliyal is Ph.D. from Indian Institute of Technology Delhi with specialization in Urban Sustainability of fragile ecosystems specifically Himalayan Region. A post graduate of Himachal Pradesh University with Gold Medal in M. Sc. Geography and Certificate Course in German Language. Also, Recipient of Santosh Shiksha Puruskar by HIMOTKARSH (Sahitya, Prakashn Aivm Jankalyan Parishad, H. P.) for securing first position in M. Sc. Geography in the state
As a science student at graduate level and a Geography student at masters’ level has exposed her to various aspects of development and environment, question of livelihood in urban areas, the question of expansion of settlement in the hilly regions, importance of green-space in cities especially in fragile ecology.
Training on Remote Sensing and GIS in Urban and Regional Planning from Indian Institute of Remote Sensing ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) has further helped her in understanding different kinds of land-use/land cover transformation in cities.
Life Member of Association of Punjab Geographers, Alumni Association Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and Government of India Department of Space, Indian Institute of Remote Sensing Dehradun (ISRO).
She has published and presented research papers at national and international platforms on themes such as sustainability, climate change, livelihood issues of tribals, conservation of water, ecotourism and transport sustainability etc.
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Also, be sure to read the accompanying materials for more insights. ( International Conference on Identity, Culture, Development and Environment in the Himalayas: Challenges and future prospects )
