Centre for Himalayan Studies

University of Delhi




About

Welcome to the Centre for Himalayan Studies at the University of Delhi. Established in 2021, coinciding with the centenary year of the University, our centre is dedicated to advancing research and development across various facets of the Himalayan region. The Himalayas, celebrated for their youthful geological formation and iconic peaks like Mount Everest, serving as a crucial biodiversity hotspot, hosting nearly 52.7 million people which is spread over five countries namely India, China, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bhutan. Several Indian states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Union territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, and the eight North-eastern states of India - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim and parts of West Bengal are integral part of the great Himalayan ecosystem having diverse ecosystems and cultures. Our centre is committed to delving into the intricacies of this unique ecosystem, with a focus on its significance as the "third pole" of water and a vital reservoir of freshwater resources. Our research agenda is tailored to address pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development in the Himalayan region.

Himalayan Geosystem: Society and Sustainability Investigation

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of the Himalayas with this unique field trip to Chenab Basin with the theme of, designed specifically for Masters students. This immersive experience will blend academic exploration with breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and opportunities for independent research.

Objectives

A multi-disciplinary research centre devoted to study the Himalayan history, geography, society, economy, polity, culture, traditional knowledge, bioresources, environment, sustainable development and related fields.

To carry out primary research on the above areas and collect data from all available resources both primary and secondary.

Development of transdisciplinary and an integrated Himalayan Data Centre. To have a database on people or organizations working on various aspects of the Himalaya and associate them with the centre. Establishing a Network of Scientists, Social Scientists, individuals, organizations etc., working on Himalaya by coordinating with several regional, national, and international organizations.

To strongly advocate conservation of the Himalayan resources and sustainable utilization for the benefit of people and create awareness using new media and visual aids. Develop community usable warning tools that will facilitate participation at the local level towards Himalayan emergency events. Recommendation to the Government and Communities identifying major challenges facing diverse local actors together with future challenges.

It will organize workshops, seminars, conferences, symposia, training etc, at both national and international level.

The centre will contribute towards Science-Policy and Social Science-Communities interfaces to the Government of India in the context of global agreements i.e. Sendai Framework of Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Action and Biodiversity Conservation.

To secure funding from all national and international organizations in the areas of Himalayan studies.

Providing a platform for communication and education by offering certificate and diploma courses initially and PhD degree eventually.

People

Prof. Yogesh Singh

Chief Patron

Prof. Bindhy Wasini Pandey

Director

Prof. V. S Negi

Advisor

Prof. M.S. Pawar

Advisor

Chaudhary Jagat Singh Janglee

Advisor

Prof. D.D. Sharma

Advisor

Prof. Kaushal Kumar Sharma

Advisor

Prof.Subhash.Anand

Advisor

Prof. S.K. Bandooni

Advisor

Dr. Ripu M.Kunwar

Advisor

Dr. Prabuddh Kumar Mishra

Advisor

Video Gallery

Himalayan Ecosytsem: Society and Sustainability

Join us on a transformative journey through the Himalayan ecosystem on a field visit by the Centre for Himalayan Studies from 02/05/2024 to 08/05/2024, guided by Prof. B.W. Pandey. Explore Manali, Upper Beas basin, Solang, Sisu, Koksar, Keylong, and Darcha Pass. Witness the region's beauty, traditions, and culture, followed by an enlightening interview with Prof. B.W. Pandey on environmental challenges. Delve into issues like degradation, uncontrolled tourism and sustainable solutions. Our exploration extends to remote villages, capturing local perspectives on climate change. This video aims to educate, inspire, and advocate for the preservation of the Himalayan ecosystem.

Activities

Upcoming Events



World Mountain Day Celebration:

The Centre for Himalayan Studies orchestrated a successful Mountain Day celebration on December 11th, 2023. Through various activities like panel discussions, film screenings, and cultural performances, the event heightened awareness about the pivotal role of mountain ecosystems in sustainable development with especial focus on the Himalaya.


Peer Research Group Meeting:

On February 19th, 2024, the Centre for Himalayan Studies convened a Peer Research Group Meeting, fostering collaborative research and knowledge exchange among Himalayan scholars from different departments of University of Delhi. For this purpose almost all the departments of the University were mailed and asked to nominate resource person working in the field of Himalaya. Also colleges were mailed to nominate a nodal person working the same field. This platform facilitated fruitful discussions on emerging trends and areas for future collaboration and formation of 29 themes based on the research work related to different aspects of the Himalaya for future references.


HHRS Program:

The Centre for Himalayan Studies conducted a Himalaya Hind Mahasagar Rashtra Samuh (HHRS) program in the Law Faculty on March 5th and 6th, 2024 in collaboration with Jamia Millia Islamia University and Forum for Awareness of National Security. This program explored the intricate nexus between human rights, environmental sustainability, and legal frameworks in the Himalayas, attracting scholars, legal experts, and practitioners, security forces, ambassadors from various countries.

Description Image

Himalayan Trip: Chenab Basin Field Trip

Theme: Himalayan Geosytsem: Society and Sustainability Investigation

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of the Himalayas with this unique field trip to Chenab Basin with the theme of, designed specifically for Masters students. This immersive experience will blend academic exploration with breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and opportunities for independent research.

On 21st May 2024, a meeting was convened with the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor of the University of Delhi, Prof. Yogesh Singh, to discuss the critical importance of the Himalayas and the pressing ecological issues threatening this vital mountain range. The meeting was attended by distinguished guests, including the Prof. Balram Pani, Dean of Colleges, University of Delhi, Prof. Sriprakash Singh, Director South Campus, University of Delhi, Dr. Vikash Gupta, Registrar, University of Delhi, Prof. Neera Agnimitra, Chairperson, International Relations, University of Delhi, Prof. Ashutosh Bhardwaj, Dean, International Relations S&T, University of Delhi and Prof. V S Negi, former elected EC Member University of Delhi for kind presence and gracing the meeting, Dr. Himanshu Mishra, Assistant Professor, Shaheed Bhagat Singh College Evening, as well as representatives from the University of Bath Spa and the University of Cumbria including Prof. Richard Johnson, Prof. Ian Convery and Prof. Stephanie Greshon and Seven Students from University of Bath Spa and University of Cumbria. Meeting was convened by Prof. B. W. Pandey, Director, Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of Delhi. The discussions highlighted the significance of the Himalaya as a global biodiversity hotspot, a crucial water source for major river systems, and a vital climate regulator. Participants emphasized the urgent need for immediate action to address the escalating threats posed by climate change, deforestation, unsustainable development practices, and the overexploitation of natural resources in the region. The Vice Chancellor reaffirmed the University of Delhi's commitment to supporting research initiatives, academic programs, and outreach activities focused on the Himalayan region, acknowledging its global significance and the urgency to mitigate the ecological threats it faces.


International Collaborations Seminar (24th May 2024):

The Centre for Himalayan Studies in collaboration with University of Cumbria and Bath Spa University is organizing an International Collaborations Seminar slated for May 24th, 2024. The International Collaborations Seminar on Himalayan Geosystem convenes to address sustainable development in the Himalayas, recognizing the complex interplay of ecosystems. Emphasizing conservation, climate resilience, and cross-border collaboration, experts explore strategies to preserve biodiversity while promoting socio-economic growth. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and international partnerships, the seminar aims to forge actionable solutions that safeguard the region's environmental integrity and support the well-being of indigenous communities.


International Collaborations Workshop (30th May 2024):

The Centre for Himalayan Studies in collaboration with University of Cumbria and Bath Spa University is organizing an International Collaborations Workshop slated for May 30th, 2024.


International Symposium on Changing Status of Ecosystem Health of the River Ganga

The "International Hybrid Symposium on Changing Status of Ecosystem Health of the River Ganga: An Update and Review" was organized by the Aquatic Ecosystem Health and Management Society, South and South East Asia Chapter, in collaboration with the Central University of South Bihar, ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, Vigyan Bharti (Bihar Prant), and Unnat Bharat Abhiyan- University of Delhi. The hybrid symposium took place on June 10-11, 2024, at the Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of Delhi. It gathered leading researchers, experts, and scientists from various fields who are working on different aspects of the River Ganga. The symposium featured keynote lectures and was chaired by eminent scientists and researchers from various parts of the world, including Dr. Mohiuddin Munawar (Senior Scientist, Fisheries and Oceans, Canada), Dr. Dilip Kumar (Former Director/VC, ICAR - Centre for Inland Fisheries Education, India), Prof. Bhupendra Nath Pandey (Retired Professor, President of the Zoological Society of India), Dr. B. K. Chakraborty (Former Director, Department of Fisheries, Matshya Bhaban, Bangladesh), Prof. Shyam Narayan Labh (Professor, Tribhuvan University, Nepal), Prof. Ram Kumar (Professor, Central University of South Bihar, India), Dr. Uttam Kumar Sarkar (Director, ICAR - National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, India), Prof. Rajesh (Professor, University of Delhi, Nodal Officer, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan), Dr. Faiyaz A. Khudsar (Scientist Incharge, Biodiversity Parks Programme, University of Delhi, India), Prof. Jaigopal Sharma (Director, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University), Prof. B.W. Pandey (Director, Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of Delhi), Padmashree Dr. R. K. Sinha (Former Professor, Patna University, India), and Shri K.K. Singh (IFS, APCCF, India).

Himalayan Research Internship Program (HRIP) 2024

The Centre for Himalayan Studies (CHS) has made a significant advancement in nurturing a new generation of professionals dedicated to the sustainable development and conservation of the Himalayan region. The Centre has recently launched a comprehensive training and internship program aimed at equipping students with the crucial skills and knowledge needed to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and disaster risk within this delicate ecosystem. This program is specifically designed for undergraduate and postgraduate students, offering them a unique blend of hands-on experience and theoretical understanding. Participants are exposed to various critical themes such as "Sustainable Tourism and Community Development in the Himalayas," "Climate Change Adaptation Strategies," and "Disaster Preparedness and Response." The program covers diverse areas in Himachal Pradesh, including Dalhousie, Kakira, Balera, and Dhar, providing a broad perspective on regional issues. A notable component of the internship program was the "Himalayan Expedition and Research Investigation," which took place from June 21, 2024 to July 20, 2024. This intensive program included a field trip to the Ravi Basin from July 6 to July 11. The field trip, under the theme "Himalayan Expedition and Research Investigation," involved interns from across India, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The objective was to conduct high-quality research on various aspects of the Himalayan region, enhancing their practical understanding and research capabilities.The internship culminated in the submission of five dissertations, each addressing different themes and objectives related to the Himalayan environment. These dissertations reflect the interns' thorough investigations and contributions to understanding and addressing key issues within the region. Through this program, CHS is not only fostering academic and research excellence but also actively preparing the next generation of experts committed to the sustainable management and conservation of the Himalayas. The initiative highlights the Centre’s dedication to advancing knowledge and solutions that will help safeguard this vital region for the future.During the one-month internship program, participants engaged in several research projects focused on sustainable development and climate resilience in Himachal Pradesh.

Himotsav 2024: Celebration of Himalaya Diwas to Honor the Majestic Himalayas

The Centre for Himalayan Studies hosted a significant celebration of Himotsav 2024, “Himalaya: The Crown of Life and Culture," on 9th September 2024, to observe Himalayan Day. This pivotal event brought together scholars, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore the Himalayan region's pressing challenges and opportunities. The one day seminar featured a distinguished line-up of speakers and researchers who shared their latest findings and insights on various critical topics, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and indigenous knowledge. The presentations comprehensively overviewed current issues and advancements in the Himalayas' unique ecosystem. The seminar aimed to deepen the understanding of the Himalayan environment and its complex dynamics through a series of interesting discussions and collaborative sessions. By facilitating dialogue among experts and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the seminar seeks out to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the Himalayas and contribute to creating effective solutions. The event underscored the Centre's commitment to advancing knowledge and supporting efforts to ensure the sustainable management and conservation of the Himalayan ecosystem. For organizing this holy day, the Centre for Himalayan Studies collaborated with other institutions and agencies, including the National Council for Promotion of Sindhi Language, SHERPA, Dalio ka Dagariya, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Evening College, and the University of Delhi

Public Lecture: “Bodily Knowledge of Cultural Practices: Analytical Tools towards an Embodied Epistemology”

Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of Delhi in collaboration with Centre for Tribal Studies, University of Delhi organized a public lecture on “Bodily Knowledge of Cultural Practices: Analytical Tools towards an Embodied Epistemology” on 13th September, 2024 at Seminar Room 105, Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of Delhi, that saw presence of the Speaker Grit Kirstin Koeltzsch, Professor of Anthropology, National University of Jujuy, Argentina, guest of honour Prof. K. Ratnabali, Dean, Academic Affairs, University of Delhi and organizers of the lecture Prof. S.M. Patniak, Director, Centre for Tribal Studies, University of Delhi and Prof. B.W. Pandey, Director, Centre for Himalayan Studies, University of Delhi. This lecture showcased importance of cultural practices being taken up for the preservation of culture along with importance of objects being used to perform these activities. This lecture was followed by a cultural event that showcased importance of cultures in form of dance forms and folk songs of the Himalayan region of India.

Upcoming Events


International Conference (11th and 12th December 2024):


The Centre For Himalayan Studies is gearing up for another significant event, the International Conference scheduled for December 9th and 10th, 2024 to celebrate the Himalayan Day. This seminar will serve as a platform for scholars, policymakers, and stakeholders to delve into emerging trends, innovative approaches, and policy recommendations for sustainable development in the Himalayas.

Contact

Location:

Dream Building, North Campus, University of Delhi, Delhi

Call:

+91-9560525260