HNLU's Centre For Law And Indigenous Studies Hosts Online Discourse On Tribal Development And Challenges In India
LIVELAW NEWS NETWORK
11 Aug 2023 11:22 AM IST
The Centre for Law and Indigenous Studies, a pioneering initiative under the School for Law and Humanities at Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), commemorated the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples with an insightful online panel discussion on August 9, 2023. The discussion, held under the theme of 'Tribal Development and its Challenges in India', brought together experts to deliberate on the critical issues faced by indigenous communities.
Distinguished panelists included Mr. R. K. Singh, Secretary of the Innovation Commission, Government of Chhattisgarh, and Ms. Shomona Khanna, an accomplished Lawyer at the Supreme Court of India. The event was initiated with a warm welcome by Dr. Ayan Hazra, Assistant Professor and Center Head of the Centre for Law and Indigenous Studies.
Prof. (Dr.) V. C. Vivekanandan, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of HNLU in his opening remarks accentuated the invaluable contributions of indigenous populations worldwide. He emphasized their pivotal role as custodians of the ecosystem, emphasizing the need to recognize and support their endeavors.
Mr. R. K. Singh emphasized the challenges faced by indigenous and tribal groups living in forests and relying on them for survival. He stressed the need for increased climate funding and revised laws to govern tribal lands, highlighting their potential to provide solutions for social stability, poverty reduction, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation.
Ms. Shomona Khanna discussed the Panchayat Act, designed to empower residents of fifth schedule territories, mainly tribal areas. She highlighted the incomplete state-level implementation of the law, advocating for extensive legal revisions covering issues like money lending, land acquisition, excise, forest produce, mining, and minerals to ensure the welfare of indigenous communities.
This panel discussion provided a platform for crucial dialogue on the challenges faced by indigenous communities and served as a reminder of the importance of sustainable development that respects and supports their unique way of life.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 100 students and faculty members, who engaged in a stimulating exchange of ideas. Dr. Avinash Samal, Director of the School for Law and Humanities at HNLU, delivered the Vote of Thanks. The event was anchored by Mr. Mr. Jeevan Sagar, Assistant Professor, HNLU and designed by Dr. Ayan Hazra -Head of the Centre for Law and Indigenous people. The complete programme is available in HNLU You Tube Channel
