IIAS Shimla Hosts National Seminar on Indian Knowledge Systems and Artificial Intelligence

Shimla, October 29, 2026: The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Nivas, Shimla, inaugurated a two-day national seminar on “Indian Knowledge System and Artificial Intelligence: Integrating Indigenous Wisdom with Emerging Technologies” on Thursday. The seminar, scheduled for October 29–30, explores how India’s philosophical, ethical, linguistic, environmental and cultural traditions can contribute to responsible and inclusive technological development.

Prof. Raj Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Bennett University, Greater Noida, attended the inaugural session as chief guest, while Dr. Priyanka Tripathi, Associate Professor at IIT Patna, delivered the keynote address online. Dr. Sumit Narula, Dean of the Times School of Media at Bennett University and seminar convener, introduced the theme. Dr. Rajeev Kumar Mishra, Librarian and In-charge (ARO) at IIAS, delivered the welcome address.

The gathering observed two minutes of silence in memory of Professor Sachidananda Mohanty, National Fellow at IIAS, who passed away on October 27. A distinguished scholar of English and Odia literature, literary criticism and cultural history, Mohanty authored 29 books and previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Odisha.

The seminar’s first day featured three academic sessions focusing on environmental sustainability, arts and cultural heritage, and AI ethics. Discussions examined environmental ethics, Kautilya’s *Arthashastra*, Gandhian trusteeship, the use of AI in preserving manuscripts and traditional crafts, and the ethical implications of applying emerging technologies to cultural heritage.

The sessions also explored how Indian philosophical concepts such as *dharma*, *ahimsa*, *lokasangraha* and *viveka* could inform responsible AI development. Speakers discussed algorithmic bias, fairness, accountability and the protection of traditional artists and cultural traditions.

Dr. Akhilesh Pathak, Sales and Public Relations Officer at IIAS, moderated the inaugural session and proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the speakers, participants and institute leadership.

The second day, scheduled for October 30, will focus on Ayurveda, Yoga and AI in health and well-being, Indian linguistic traditions and language technologies, and curriculum, policy and capacity building. The seminar aims to promote a technological future that balances innovation with human values, social inclusion, cultural continuity and environmental responsibility.