From Past to Present: Social Transformation, Heritage, and Memory

Chandigarh, March 18, 2026: The Institute of Social Science Education and Research (ISSER), Panjab University, Chandigarh, today organised One Day International Seminar at the Seminar Hall, PU-ISSER.

The seminar, themed "From Past to Present: Social Transformation, Heritage, and Memory," brought together a distinguished gathering of international scholars, faculty members, and researchers to explore the evolving landscape of social history and cultural identity. 

The proceedings commenced with a formal welcome address by Prof. Anju Suri, Coordinator, PU-ISSER. In her opening remarks, Prof. Suri emphasized the institute's commitment to interdisciplinary research and the necessity of understanding historical memory to navigate contemporary social shifts.

PU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Renu Vig, in absentia blessed the organisation of the Seminar and sent her greetings for its success.  

Prof. Meenakshi Goyal, Director, Research and Development Cell, Panjab University graced the occasion highlighted the evolution of society over time, noting that heritage extends far beyond traditions and stressing the role of memory in understanding the past and interpreting the present. 

Meeta R. Lochan (IAS, Secretary, National Commission for Backward Classes) discussed the relationship between history and mathematics. Prof. M. Rajiv Lochan (Retd., Department of History, PU) focused on the importance of being aware of available facilities and effectively utilizing them. Prof. Devi Sirohi (Retd.), Member, State Legal Services Authority, Chandigarh and Former Chairperson, Child Rights Commission, Chandigarh) elaborated on resilience and women’s empowerment, stating that women are powerhouses across various fields; she also reflected on the evolving status of women, noting that while women held a high position in ancient civilizations, they were not always granted equal status to men. 

Prof. Jigar Mohammad (University of Jammu) emphasised the association between knowledge and religion, elaborating on the evolution of Sufism and suggesting that individuals should embody the qualities of the sun, a river, and a life free from discrimination. 

Prof. Mohammad Idris (Department of History and Punjab Historical Studies, Punjabi University, Patiala) highlighted Al-Biruni’s contribution to memorializing Indian cultural life and promoting cross-cultural dialogue between India and the Islamic world, while also connecting the cultural past with the present. 

Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar (Padma Shri, Chairperson, Indian Council of Historical Research, New Delhi) discussed how India stands apart from other countries due to its evolution and hospitality, and encouraged a global perspective of self-reflection. 
The inaugural session concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Akshat, PU-ISSER, who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, faculty, eminent scholars and students for their active engagement.