National Seminar on Development Discourse concludes

IMPHAL, March 19: The Two Days National Seminar on “Development Discourse: Expanding Horizons” organized by the Department of Social Work, IGNTU, RCM, Imphal, concluded today.

Chaired by Dr. Dhanabir Laishram, a panel on  “State, Governance and Development” saw four speakers presenting their papers.  Nandini Thokchom, speaking on “Rooting and Engendering Governance: Will the Twain Ever Meet” highlighted the issues of women in the context of Manipur. She elaborated on the conceptual understanding of governance and stated that modern understanding of governance has take into account the positive aspect of traditional institutions and at the same time infuse with modern so that women can participate in not only uplifting themselves but also in decision making.

Dr. Subharta Dutta spoke on the title, “Governance and Development Role of PRIs” stressed the importance of grass root government system, which in certain parts of India have been able to bring about positive changes in the lives of the people.

Dr. Benjamin Gangmei speaking on “Backwardness Problem and Conflict in Manipur Hills: A study from Land Perspective” stated that land is important for community development but proper utilization of land is more important. "In the context of tribals of Manipur, there are three common types of ownership such as individual, community and clan ownership. Community and clan ownership of land negatively affects land utilization," he stated.

Homen Thangjam spoke on “Governmentality and Development in Post Colonial Societies”. According to him, the modern idea of governance is informed by colonial governmentality. " The Idea of development changes over time and the case of Northeast is a classical case," he said adding that from 1949 to the 1990s, the Nehruvian model of development dictated wherein no market and financial institutions were allowed to flourish.

There were  two other parallel sessions featuring ten paper presentations. The sessions were chaired by Dr. L. Mohendro Singh, Sr. Fellow, ICSSR and Asst. Prof., S Kula College, Nambol and Irengbam Arun, Sr. Journalist, respectively.

The Valedictory Function was graced by Prof. Vanlanghak, Director, IGNTU-RCM.