IIT ISM hosts national conference linking ancient texts with modern science
On February 25, 2026, the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad commenced a three-day national conference focused on the intersection of ancient Indian texts, science, and technology. This event gathered scholars from various parts of the country to explore the relationship between India’s classical knowledge traditions and contemporary scientific thought.
Conference Overview
The conference, titled “Ancient Indian Texts, Science and Technology,” is being organized collaboratively by the Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems and the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences. It has received support from the Indian Council of Philosophical Research and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation.
The primary goal of the conference is to foster structured academic dialogue between textual scholarship and modern scientific inquiry. This initiative reflects a broader trend of technical institutes engaging with civilizational knowledge systems, emphasizing the relevance of ancient wisdom in today’s scientific landscape.
Keynote Addresses
Presidential Address by Prof. Sukumar Mishra
In his presidential address, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, the Director of IIT ISM, highlighted the progression from Gyan (knowledge) to Vigyan (science) and then to Praudyogiki (technology). He emphasized that Indian knowledge traditions have historically integrated philosophical reflection with scientific inquiry and practical applications. Prof. Mishra pointed out that this holistic framework is still pertinent to contemporary discussions on innovation and technological advancement.
Inaugural Lecture by Prof. C D Sebastian
The inaugural lecture was delivered by Prof. C D Sebastian from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay. He drew parallels between classical Sānkhya philosophy and modern scientific reasoning, particularly referencing the Sānkhya Kārikā. Prof. Sebastian examined how ancient inquiries into causation and reality may resonate with contemporary analytical frameworks, while also situating these comparisons within an academic context.
Guest of Honour: Swami Kripamayanand Avadhut
Swami Kripamayanand Avadhut, the guest of honour, spoke about the relationship between spirituality and science. He noted that Indian traditions often view these domains as complementary rather than opposing forces. His insights contributed to the overarching theme of the conference, which seeks to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern scientific understanding.
Conference Themes and Sessions
The conference features a variety of technical sessions over its duration, covering a wide range of subjects that connect ancient Indian texts with modern scientific principles. Some of the key topics include:
- Buddhist medical practices
- Indian cosmology
- Circular consumption models
- The scientific foundations of classical texts
These sessions aim to explore how ancient knowledge can inform and enhance contemporary scientific practices and theories.
Dhanbad’s Evolving Academic Identity
The organizers of the conference have noted that this event also reflects Dhanbad’s evolving academic identity, moving beyond its historical legacy in mining to become a hub for scholarly discourse in various fields. By hosting such conferences, IIT ISM is positioning itself as a leader in integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry.
Conclusion
The national conference at IIT ISM is an important step towards recognizing and valuing the contributions of ancient Indian texts to modern science. By fostering dialogue between different fields of knowledge, the conference aims to inspire new ideas and innovations that can benefit society as a whole. As scholars continue to explore these connections, the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration and understanding will only grow.
Note: This article is based on information available as of February 2026 and aims to provide an overview of the conference and its significance in linking ancient knowledge with contemporary scientific thought.
