The First Annual Conference of the Sociological Association of North Eastern India (SANEI) sponsored by the North East Council (NEC), Shillong, began today at Japfü Christian College Kigwema. The event will continue till March 22. The Conference is being held in collaboration with the Indian Sociological Society, celebrating the Golden Jubilee Year of the All India Sociological Conference.
The conference which was held under the theme ‘Sociology in North East India: Retrospect and Prospects’ was graced by La Ganesan, Governor of Nagaland as the Chief Guest where he also launched the BOOK OF ABSTRACTS.
Prof. Chandan Kumar Sharma, (Tezpur University) in his presidential address cum keynote address highlighted that it is a momentous occasion for sociological fraternity engaged in the study of the region. Chandan highlighted that , Sociology as an academic discipline in India has a rich history spanning over a century. Chandan also underscored that SANEI is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping and directing sociological research in the region. He also emphasized on promoting critical sociological inquiry and knowledge production and said that SANEI can foster a nuanced understanding of the region’s complexities, ultimately enriching the field of sociology as a whole. Prof Chandan underscored the significant number of young scholars, both within and outside the region, undertaking exceptional research in recent years. The enthusiastic response to this conference, within a remarkably short period, testifies to the dedication and commitment to the discipline. As we move forward, our task is to engage with a wider audience of teachers and researchers, fostering an inclusive, democratic, and vibrant academic platform in the region, he added. Chandan highlighted that they have made a promising start at Japfu Christian College.
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La Ganesan, Governor of Nagaland while addressing the First Annual Conference of the Sociological Association of Northeast India said that the conference marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts to advance sociological research and discourse in the Northeast region. Governor also emphasized on the role of sociology in region and said it that is paramount—not only in documenting the lived experiences of our people but also in shaping policies that promote inclusivity, social justice and sustainable development.
He also encouraged sociologists, social scientists from other disciplines, policymakers and community leaders to work together in addressing pressing issues such as gender equality, violence against women, economic disparities, migration, climate change, identity, environmental sustainability. Taking the opportunity, Ganesan highlighted the significance of engaging with local communities in research processes and hoped that the conference serve as a catalyst for new ideas, constructive debates, and actionable solutions for the betterment of Northeast India and beyond.
Earlier during the inaugural program, Som Kamei (IPoS), Planning Advisor, North Eastern Council Secretariat (NEC), Shillong graced the occasion as Guest of Honour. Visakhonü Hibo, Principal, Japfü Christian College chaired the event while the welcome address and SANEI Secretary’s Report was delivered by Prof. Ajailiu Niumai (University of Hyderabad). The vote of thanks was further pronounced by Prof. R. K. Mohanty (Mizoram University).
