Rono Hills, May 8: The Centre for Online and Distance Education (CODE) of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), in collaboration with Central Sanskrit University, New Delhi, launched a two-day Sanskrit orientation workshop from May 7, aimed at reviving and promoting India’s traditional knowledge systems.
Titled “Sanskrit and Sanskriti: Unearthing the Repository of Knowledge in the Traditional Indian Knowledge System,” the workshop drew over 200 participants including scholars, students and cultural enthusiasts from RGU, VKCTE Nirjuli and Oju Mission School, Naharlagun.
The event began with the RGU Kul Geet and ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by a Manglacharan dance performance. RGU registrar Dr N T Rikam, in his welcome address, stressed the need to preserve Sanskrit and indigenous tribal languages, warning that many are at risk of extinction.
Programme convenor Moyir Riba highlighted the workshop’s alignment with the national Sanskrit Sambhashan Shivir Abhiyan and underscored RGU’s commitment to Sanskrit learning.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof Prahlad R Joshi, vice chancellor of Kumar Bhaskar Varma Sanskrit & Ancient Studies University, Assam, said Sanskrit is deeply rooted in Arunachal’s identity, citing villages where the language remains in use. He called for repositioning Sanskrit as a living, modern language.
Arunachal Legislative Assembly Speaker Tesam Pongte, who attended as guest of honour, praised the state’s mother-tongue education policy and urged similar efforts for the preservation of tribal chanting languages. These, he said, contain ecological and medicinal knowledge passed down through generations.
A panel discussion followed, featuring scholars from RGU who explored Sanskrit’s educational relevance in modern times. Topics ranged from computational linguistics to teaching innovations and job-oriented courses.
Interactive Sanskrit language activities and games added to the learning experience, culminating in a collective National Anthem. Prof Ashan Riddi, director of CODE, delivered the vote of thanks and pledged continued cooperation with Sanskrit universities.
The workshop concluded Thursday with cultural performances and a valedictory session to recognise participant achievements and plan future initiatives.
