Nagaland University launches teaching, research on Indian Knowledge Systems in chemistry

Nagaland University (NU) has launched a new teaching and research programme in the field of chemistry, focusing on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). This interdisciplinary programme aims to combine India's rich traditions of chemical knowledge with contemporary scientific research.

This course aims to introduce students to India's chemical knowledge traditions and explore their historical development and connections with medicine, metallurgy, materials science, and environmental practices.

The chemistry programme focused on IKS is open to students from all disciplines, highlighting its broad academic relevance.

The Department of Chemistry has launched a value-added course titled "Chemistry in Indian Knowledge Systems," which has been approved by the University Academic Council (UAC).

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NU: IKS-focused chemistry programme

Vice-chancellor Jagadish K. Patnaik encouraged students to join in this programme, stating that the curriculum strengthens research and educational activities related to Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) within the field of Chemistry. He also commended Upasana Bora Sinha and her team for their leadership in developing this programme.

This is a significant step towards realising the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, Patnaik said.

“In addition to teaching, the University is supporting advanced research in the field. Upasana Bora Sinha is pursuing a Doctor of Science (DSc) on the evolution of chemistry in India from 1500 BC to the 21st century, linking ancient chemical knowledge with modern research through computational methods,” the Nagaland University press release stated.

Her work builds on the legacy of pioneers such as Acharya P. C. Ray and later scholars, including B. V. Subbarayappa and Priyadaranjan Ray, the notice added.

These programmes provide students with interdisciplinary learning and research-based perspectives. This helps them engage critically with India's scientific heritage and contemporary global challenges, Sinha said.