A two-day national-level training programme and workshop on social empowerment and beggary prevention has been inaugurated on March 25, 2026 at the Department of English, Nagaland University, Kohima Campus. The programme is being jointly organised by the Department of English and the Department of Teacher Education.
The first day has commenced with active participation from stakeholders, research scholars, faculty members, and students, creating a platform for dialogue and engagement on pressing social issues.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. J.K. Patnaik, who graced the inaugural session, has highlighted the relevance of indigenous knowledge systems in addressing contemporary challenges. He has noted that Naga indigenous culture discourages beggary through its emphasis on dignity, community solidarity, and self-reliance, and stressed that solutions must combine policy interventions with cultural values.
Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. N. Venuh, the guest of honour, has focused on the psychological dimensions of beggary, stating that it often stems from distress, alienation, and emotional deprivation. He has called for empathetic, counselling-based and community-driven approaches.
Convener Dr Subhashis Banerjee has outlined the socio-economic and cultural dimensions of beggary, emphasising the need for coordinated efforts among institutions, government agencies, and communities.
Prof. M.A.J. Khan has underlined the responsibility of academic institutions in addressing social challenges, while Prof. Nigamananda Das has drawn attention to issues of child abuse and the vulnerability of marginalised communities.
Technical sessions have included lectures by Dr Jasojit Debnath on microfinance and livelihood strategies, and Dr Dhrubajyoti Bordoloi on the link between beggary and child exploitation.
A round table discussion led by Dr Brijesh has explored representations of child abuse in Hindi literature, linking literary narratives with social realities. A documentary screening by Dr Prasenjit Pal has further reinforced the discussions, followed by an interactive session with participants.
The deliberations have collectively emphasised the need for inclusive, interdisciplinary, and humane approaches to address beggary, setting the tone for the remaining sessions of the programme.