The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the Central University of Punjab inaugurated a Certificate Course in Vedic Astronomy on Monday, marking a significant initiative to integrate traditional Indian knowledge with contemporary scientific learning. The inaugural ceremony was held in the esteemed presence of Vice Chancellor Prof. R. P. Tiwari, Chief Guest Dr. Mani Kant Paswan (Director, SLIET Longowal), and Guest of Honour Dr. Ravi Kant Mishra (Professor of Mathematics, SLIET Longowal).
The programme commenced with an introduction to the course objectives by Prof. Gauri Shankar, followed by a Welcome Address delivered by Professor Sanjeev Thakur, Dean Student Welfare. As part of the expert lecture session, Dr. Ravi Kant Mishra and Dr. Mani Kant Paswan delivered thought-provoking talks on various aspects of the Indian Knowledge System and Vedic Astronomy.
Their discussions highlighted the contributions of ancient Indian scholars, the concept of cosmic intelligence, and the astronomical significance of traditional rituals. Dr. Mishra shed light on the foundational work of Aryabhata, Bhaskaracharya, Adi Shankaracharya, and other luminaries, while Dr. Paswan explained the philosophy of zero and the astronomical basis of events such as the Kumbh Mela, linked to Jupiter’s 12-year cycle.
In his Presidential Address, Vice Chancellor Prof. R. P. Tiwari underscored the deep interrelationship between ancient Indian knowledge systems and modern scientific thought. He emphasized the need to integrate traditional wisdom into contemporary education to foster holistic learning and innovative thinking among students.
The event also featured the formal inauguration of the certificate course, followed by a felicitation ceremony. On this occasion, Dr. Sachin Kumar, Head, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, expressed gratitude to the dignitaries.
Toward the conclusion, Dr. Ashok Kumar Pathak, Course Coordinator, delivered the formal Vote of Thanks. With the launch of this pioneering course, the Central University of Punjab has become one of the first institutions in the country to offer structured learning in Vedic Astronomy under the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) framework.