Lucknow, December 07, 2025: The University Grants Commission (UGC), in collaboration with the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), Division of the Ministry of Education, organized a One-Day Orientation Programme for UGC–IKS Master Trainers (Sunday) at the Madan Mohan Malaviya Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC), University of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on 07 December 2025.

The programme commenced with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony by Prof. Manuka Khanna, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Lucknow (Chief Guest), Shri Prafulla Ketkar (Expert Speaker),, Editor, Organiser (Weekly), Dr. Ruchika Singh (Expert Speaker), Coordinator, IKS Division, Ministry of Education, Prof. Kamal Kumar, Director, MMTTC and Convener of the Programme. The ceremony was followed by the recitation of the Lucknow University song.

In her address, Prof. Manuka Khanna blessed the participants and emphasized India’s enduring legacy of knowledge and wisdom. She stated, “India has a long history of knowledge and wisdom. This heritage must be carried forward to the younger generations of the 21st century.”

Programme Convener Prof. Kamal Kumar welcomed the Master Trainers and highlighted the profound spiritual and cultural heritage of India. Reflecting on the philosophical depth of Indian traditions, he said that Indian spirituality is rooted in the timeless quest of self-inquiry: “Who am I?”

Delivering an impactful session, Shri Prafulla Ketkar discussed the idea of Bharat and emphasized the importance of historical clarity for Master Trainers. He traced the civilizational journey of India, covering ancient eras, foreign invasions, British colonial education, traditional Gurukul systems, and the continuity of Bhartiya Jnana Parampara.

Dr. Ruchika Singh then presented her lecture titled “Reimagining Curriculum through IKS: A Pathway to Holistic Learning.” She also conducted a practical workshop to provide hands-on exposure on integrating Indian Knowledge System into academic frameworks, showcasing India’s significant contributions to global knowledge.

Approximately four dozen Master Trainers from various states of India participated in the orientation programme with great enthusiasm. The participants expressed their gratitude to UGC Chairman Shri Vineet Joshi, UGC Secretary Dr. Manish Joshi, UGC Joint Secretary Dr. Mantha Srinivasu, and Programme Convener Prof. Kamal Kumar, along with his team, including Dr Ansh Sharma, Dr Anil Kumar and Sanjeev Kumar Srivastava, for providing excellent support and facilities.

The programme concluded with the collective recitation of the National Anthem.