GUWAHATI, July 9 - �Gandhian philosophy is relevant for all times,� said Arunachal Pradesh Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa while inaugurating the International Centre for Gandhian Studies (ICGS) of the University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), at Ninth Mile here today.
To spread the Gandhian philosophy on peace and brotherhood among the youth of the North-East, USTM has taken up an initiative to establish the ICGS.
�The initiative of the University authorities to set up such a centre is unique and praiseworthy. I�m not sure whether any such institutions are currently functioning in other parts of the country.�
In his address, Dr Jayanta Madhab, former Economic Advisor, Government of Assam, said, �Within a very short span of time, USTM has made tremendous progress. The International Centre for Gandhian Studies has added another feather to USTM�s cap.�
Anuradha Dutta, in her speech, said that a void had been filled in the region through the centre.
Explaining the purpose of the centre, Dr Alaka Desai Sarma said that the centre would provide a six-month course on Gandhian studies, working with jail inmates, helping them reduce stress and tension in a natural way. �The centre hopes to groom the students to work towards inclusive coexistence and conflict management. In the core group, there would be scholars from different countries, from the North-East and other parts of India,� she said.
The ICGS has been established at USTM with the purpose of conducting research activities and nurturing the basic philosophy of the Father of the Nation. The lessons given by Gandhi can be applied to present-day regional, national and international contexts.
The centre will also help spread the vision, philosophy and teachings from the life of Gandhi through various social, educational and cultural programmes, emphasizing the contemporary relevance of his thoughts and method of action based on the principles of courage, non-violence and truth.
