The Diplomat Desk
Jammu, TDD,“The traditional tribal knowledge system, a treasure trove of centuries-old wisdom passed through oral traditions, urgently requires documentation to safeguard it from the threats posed by modernization and media influence,” stated noted tribal researcher Dr. Javaid Rahi during the Janjatiya Gourav Week celebrations organized by CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Rahi emphasized the critical need for preserving the rich heritage of tribal knowledge and culture. He urged tribal communities and researchers to work towards its systematic documentation, preservation, and propagation to ensure that future generations can benefit from this invaluable resource. Highlighting the pivotal role of youth, he encouraged tribal students to take pride in their identity and actively engage in preserving their traditional ways of life.
As part of the celebrations, an educational tour was organized for approximately 60 tribal students from various divisions of the Jammu region. The students explored CSIR-IIIM’s research laboratories, gaining real-time, hands-on experience in scientific activities.
Lectures on scientific advancements and career opportunities were delivered by Dr. Saurabh Saran, Principal Scientist, and Dr. (Mrs.) Deepika Singh, Principal Scientist and Head, QMI. The lectures aimed to inspire tribal youth to consider science and research as potential career paths.
Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, welcomed the tribal students and highlighted the institute’s ongoing contributions to societal welfare through scientific innovation. He expressed hope that the students’ visit would inspire them to explore science further and consider it as a career choice.
The event concluded with a vibrant cultural program showcasing the tribal traditions and folk culture of Jammu and Kashmir. The visiting students were felicitated with mementos and certificates by Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Vikram Singh, Senior Controller of Administration, and Er. Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist, CSIR-IIIM.
The program was coordinated by Abhisek Gupta, Akhil Verma, Vishal Kunyal, and Kajol Sharma, with Rajesh Gupta, Administrative Officer, delivering a formal vote of thanks. Gupta emphasized the importance of education for individual and societal upliftment, urging the students to prioritize learning and personal growth.
This initiative underscored CSIR-IIIM’s commitment to empowering tribal communities through education and scientific awareness, reinforcing the significance of preserving tribal knowledge and culture for generations to come.TDD