New Delhi: BR Ambedkar Bihar University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dinesh Chandra Rai chaired an academic session at the two-day international conference Manthan 5.0 (2026) held at the University of Delhi on March 27–28.
The conference, organised by the Rashtriya Suraksha Jagran Manch (FANS), was centred on the theme “Culture, Climate, and History: Lessons from Vishal Bharat”, and brought together academics, researchers and public figures to discuss cultural and ecological histories across regions extending from Iran to South and Southeast Asia.
Prof Rai, who is also a senior professor at Banaras Hindu University, presided over a session titled “Greater India and Global Dialogue”, where scholars discussed India’s historical and cultural linkages with the wider world.
In his address, Rai highlighted what he described as the enduring relevance of Indian philosophical traditions in addressing contemporary global challenges.
“Indian thought is founded on balance, harmony, and peaceful coexistence,” he said. “India has given the world the ideas of non-violence, yoga and Ayurveda. It is a civilisation of cultural awakening rather than territorial greed. Ancient Indian civilisation offers lessons in environmental conservation, cultural harmony and historical continuity, which can help address present-day challenges such as climate change, cultural conflict and ecological imbalance.”
The event was attended by several public figures, including Indresh Kumar, a senior functionary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, who served as chief patron of the conference, and University of Delhi Vice-Chancellor Prof Yogesh Singh. Union minister of state Tokhan Sahu addressed the valedictory session, alongside other dignitaries.
The conference featured multiple thematic sessions and discussions on historical interpretation, cultural exchange and environmental issues.
Following the session, faculty members and officials from Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University welcomed Rai’s participation, describing it as a significant academic engagement for the institution.
