Two-day National Seminar on Prospects and Challenges of Northeast Tribes' Folk Culture Begins at Maibang Degree College

 

Haflong, October 31: The ICSSR-sponsored two-day National Seminar on "Prospects and Challenges of the Folk Culture of the Tribes of Northeast India" began on Thursday at Maibang Degree College. Organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in collaboration with the Departments of Education and History, the seminar aims to explore and address critical issues surrounding the rich tribal folk heritage of the region.

The formal inauguration was marked by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Chief Guest, symbolizing the beginning of the event. A special cultural segment, Baidima, was performed by the students of Maibang Degree College, adding a traditional touch to the occasion.

The welcome address was delivered by Sujit Kr Sinha, Principal in-charge of Maibang Degree College, who greeted all attendees and outlined the seminar's objectives. The event was graced by the presence of Mrs. Nandita Gorlosa, Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare, Government of Assam, as the Chief Guest. Mohet Hojai, Chairman of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), was the Guest of Honour, while Prof. Smriti Kumar Sinha, Vice Chancellor of Pragjyotishpur University, attended as a Special Guest. The keynote address was delivered by Padmashree Prof. Anil Boro from the Department of Folklore Studies, Gauhati University, who highlighted the enduring significance and evolving challenges of safeguarding tribal folk culture in contemporary times.

Other notable dignitaries included  Manjay Langthasa, and Bikendra Hojai from the NCH Autonomous Council and Maibang Degree College Governing Body  respectively, along with Dr. Uttam Bathari from the Department of History, Gauhati University, and Dr. Ghanashyam Deka, Principal of North Kamrup College, Bajali, who also served as a resource person.The seminar promises to foster scholarly discussions and collaborative efforts to preserve the folk traditions that form the cultural backbone of Northeast India’s tribal communities.

The Chief Guest Nandita Gorlosa followed with a speech highlighting key themes and expectations from the seminar. Esteemed Guest of Honour Mohet Hojai shared valuable perspectives during their speech, enriching the deliberations. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Dadul Borah, Coordinator of IQAC, Maibang Degree College, acknowledging the contributions of all participants and organizers.