SHUBHANGI SHIFA
Ranchi, April 29: The Department of International Relations, Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ), Brambe, Ranchi in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi concluded a two-day National Seminar on ‘India’s Freedom Movement and Untold Stories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI)’ on Friday.
Various scholars and professors from all over India presented interesting and innovative ideas. Some of the topics were life and culture of indigenous people of Andaman; Diversity and Unity in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a Comparative Study between Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Northern India etc.
The researchers presented their views that although ANI is a peaceful place and boasts of unity despite having such diversity, migration in the islands might create a problem in the coming future.
Dr Bibhuti Bhusan Biswas, Convener of the Seminar gave an insight into the history of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and also thanked all the participants. He commented that although these two days’ insights were given about the islands, still a lot is left for us to see and discover.
Talking of it, he said, “The Andaman Islands and the Malacca strait hold very strategic importance for India’s maritime security and for countering China in the Indian Ocean. We should recognise the importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and cherish the rich history and culture of India. We have a lot to learn from our glorious heritage like the Cholas used the islands for their maritime trade.
Professors and research scholars from all over India presented their insightful papers on various topics related to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Some of the topics include Battle of Aberdeen: The Untold Story of Andamanese, Deep Pluralism of Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Shadow of Extra-regional Powers.
The researchers talked about the Japanese rule on the Andaman Islands, the history of the islands, the current strategic importance of the islands and the politics in and around the islands.
The valedictory programme was chaired by Prof. Dev Vrat Singh (Professor & former Head, Department of Mass Communication, CUJ). The Valedictory address was given by Prof. Utham Kumar Jamadhagni (Professor & Head, Department of Defense and Strategic Studies, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu). Students and research scholars of the Department of International relations, CUJ were present on this occasion.
