The Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research (CNESPR), in fulfilling its commitment to fostering a comprehensive understanding of the diverse cultural and historical fabric of North East India, celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2024 on the 26th November 2024. The Centre organised an invited talk on ‘Indigenous Knowledge: Naga Perspectives on Health and Justice’ by Mr. Martin Kamodang, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Jamia Millia Islamia. The event was chaired by Prof Manisha Tripathy Pandey, Hony. Director, CNESPR.
Dr K. Kokho, Assistant Professor of CNESPR, greeted the speaker and the audience with a welcoming address. Prof Manisha T. Pandey then welcomed Mr. Marting Kamadong, the invited speaker, with a sapling and opened the floor for his enriching presentation and perspectives from the field. The talk by Martin Kamodang was focused on the indigenous knowledge systems of the Tangkhul Naga society of Manipur. He talked about the tribal customary laws, dispute resolution, community participation in Jhum cultivation and traditional healing practices incorporating elements of herbal medicines and spirituality. He emphasised moving beyond the ‘colonised minds’ to have an open perspective about tribal knowledge systems and their ways of life.
The event garnered significant participation, with attendance from research scholars across the Centres and Departments of the university along with the faculty of the Centre. This diverse assembly contributed to a pertinent and passionate discussion that extended to critical perspectives about implementing IKS. The thought-provoking insights and questions raised by the attendees reflected a keen interest in the historical and cultural intricacies of the North East.
The Centre expresses its gratitude to Mr. Martin Kamodang for his illuminating talk and to all the participants who made the event a success. Such academic engagements serve the dynamic purposes of preserving indigenous knowledge systems, the cultural heritage of tribes and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and future prospects in North East India.
CNSEPR will continue to facilitate dialogue and nuanced understanding on topics of importance to the region and the nation at large.
