VKIC Annual Report 2018-2019

VIVEKANANDA KENDRA INSTITUTE OF CULTURE
ANNUAL ACTIVITY REPORT

April 2017 to March 2018
CONTENTS
v Foreword 2
v Forest-Community Interface 3
v ‘Namghar Eti Sanskritik Sikhayalay’ 7
v Discussion in Diphu on Intellectual Property Rights 9
and its Status in Karbi Anglong
v Gita Jayanti Celebration 10
v 5th Dr Minati Hazarika Memorial Lecture 11
v Second Panel Discussion on Development through Culture 13
v Foundation Day 2018 14
v Exploring Emerging Opportunities for India in South East Asia 15
v New Book Releases 22
v VKIC, Yoga Activities 24
v Some events in which VKIC karyakartas participated 25
v VKIC Reference Library 27
v Members of EC and RAC 30
v List of Donors 31
v VKIC Publications 32
v Audit Report 33
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Phone: 0361-2736945
Email: [email protected], Website: www.vkic.org
Foreword
“All differences in this world are of degree, and not of kind, because oneness is the
secret of everything,” thus spake Swami Vivekananda, the blessed child of Mother Bharat.
This sublime ideal espoused by Swamiji was amply reflected in our work spanning a year
2017-18 (financial). In a world that is today buffeted by small and great forces which are
subversive and divisive, our work in different areas attested to our belief in his deeply
meaningful thoughts.
Our Foundation Day celebration on January 31 was marked by the bestowing of the
VKIC Sanmaan 2018 to two remarkable women, Smt Gayatri Debi of Tripura and Smt
Jonaki Baro of Assam. Smt Debi is a seeker and social worker, who serves the poor and the
suffering in some of the remotest corners of her State. The latter, an educationist and an
empowering force among rural women, continues to bring communities together to work
towards common welfare. It was an honour and privilege to listen to the two inspiring
women. They both exemplify the resilient power that emerges from unifying people.
Dr Arvind Gupta, Director of the Vivekananda International Foundation, delivered
the Foundation Day lecture titled: Exploring Emerging Opportunities for India in South
East Asia. His speech, reproduced here illustrates how cultural affinities and shared geo-
political interests can open new doors for India in a region that has become an economic
power house. Although some advantages were forfeited by India in the past, building new
bridges to facilitate commerce, transport, strategic cooperation and cultural exchange under
the Act East Policy will be a win-win proposition for India as well as the countries of South
East Asia.
The livelihood and economic prospects emerging from natural dyes and innovative
weaving of traditional textile were discussed in some detail in one of our interactive sessions
on Development Through Culture. Two young entrepreneurs shared their experiences about
recent trends in India as well as abroad. They concurred that both the activities can be
accelerated with planning involving all the stakeholders. The activities were both sustainable
and benign to Nature, and do not uproot the people from their land and community.
An interesting part of our journey is about a lecture series named Forest Community
Interface in which experts with knowledge of people and their ties with neighbouring
forests share their thoughts. A number of speakers have revealed some fascinating facts
about the dynamic relations communities have with their forests, which include spiritual
and cultural links. The various lectures, at times have revealed a unifying element – there is
great reverence for forests among the communities, some manifesting in the appeasement of
forest deities – an ancient legacy that is still alive and well.
With sincere regards,
Dr. P. C. Bhattacharjee
Director, Research Advisory Council
Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 2

VKIC ANNUAL ACTIVITY REPORT
April 2017 - March 2018
Forest-Community Interface
(A new lecture series under Sanskriti Anveshak)
‘Traditional Knowledge of land, water and forest resource management
among the tribes of North East India – an untapped potentiality for
leveraging sustainable development’
Noted conservation activist and documentary filmmaker Sri Jayanta Kumar Sarma
delivered a talk organised under the Sanskriti Anveshak lecture series on Saturday,
April 22, 2017. He spoke about some of the issues related to traditional knowledge and
practices which have existed among select indigenous communities living in Assam
and neighbouring states.
Based on his grassroots
experiences, and under-
standing he divided TK
broadly into ecological,
technical, and values and
ethics. All of these interfaced
with one another depending
on spatial and temporal
circumstances. Land is an
inclusive term that embraces
many components - soil,
vegetation, microbes among
others. In regard to the
communities, however,
animals are seen differently. They are taken as signifiers, each carrying different
meanings. Proximity to nature, their dependence on ecological services also spill over
into the traditional methods of natural resource management. It is reflected on their
world view. In Meghalaya it is often said that Khasis live with Nature and Nature lives
with Khasis. It is an existence that is almost symbiotic. However, with the advent of
colonialisation such world views were undermined or eroded.

Local geo-climatic conditions have impacted on the communities in different ways
manifesting in their traditional lifestyles. Traditional knowledge and practices have
emerged over long periods of experiences. One such example is the way rice is consumed
by Singphos and some of their neighbours. The steamed rice of their regular diet is not
the rice that is boiled normally. The particular variety of rice, suitable for steaming,
grows easily in the clay layers of their cropland. Similar survival strategies have evolved
over experimentation and trial and error spread over a very long time.
When such systems of traditional knowledge and practices are replaced by sudden
impositions it may cause a wide range of disturbances felt over many spheres. The
areas around present day Jatinga were home to jhum cultivation for a long time. But
near about the early 1970s when new cash crops were introduced, the changes were
felt not only on the local economy, but also cascaded into women being pushed away
from agrarian activities. Liquid money also became transferred to the menfolk of the
settlements. At times, modern interventions do make positive impacts. In a part of
western Assam replacement of traditional crops by a particular type of oil seed has
resulted in a dip in elephant depredations, a major concern in that place. Care needs
to be taken when traditional modes of resource use and management are about to
undergo change.
A major characteristic of indigenous communities vis-à-vis their perception of natural
resources and their use is a high degree of reverence to objects as well as intangible
elements. Their rituals are mostly “respect to ecological services.” Forests are respected
and worshiped because they are seen both as providers and protectors. Their perception
and interface with Nature and its constituents are both exemplary.
Sanskriti Anveshak : Forest Community Interface

‘Preserving habitats, protecting species’
Protecting existing water bodies
and natural vegetation across the
Brahmaputra valley, particularly
close to the river, is essential to
reduce the risk of flooding in the
adjoining areas. No less crucial than
new plantations in curtailing river
bank erosion, maintaining these is
the need of the hour in the face of
emerging odds.
This was one of the views
expressed by noted scientist,
‘Dolphin man of India’ Dr Ravindra

Kumar Sinha during an open discussion on ‘Forest-Community Interface’ organized
by VKIC in Guwahati on August 8, 2017. With his initiatives, National Dolphin Research
Centre, the first one of its kind in Asia, was opened in Patna.
The Padma Shri awardee, and Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University, who has
pioneered the conservation of Gangetic River Dolphin and continues to study its
ecosystem, said that the species indicates the condition of river bodies like the Ganga
and the Brahmaputra where they are found. The deep understanding of some local
communities about their surrounding environment makes them a reliable source for
researchers to gather information.
In the face of rapid changes in land use pattern in the Brahmaputra valley it is
important that whatever natural landscape exists today need to be protected with
traditional knowledge and practices. “We have to save the wetlands, which are perceived
by some as wasteland; they are natural systems of water retention and ground water
recharge. If required roads and railway routes have to be modified for the conservation
of wetlands.”
Merely spreading awareness will not be enough. Activist groups will have to be
formed, documentation has to be done, the government agencies have to be engaged
with the process. And traditional systems of sustainability have to be embraced. In
order to protect agricultural interests, locally available and sustainable crops need to be
promoted. Many of these are resistant to disease and flood, which is an advantage to a
region like the Brahmaputra valley.
Today a great threat to river systems like the Brahmaputra and the Ganga emanates
from a variety of pollutants. These include multi-drug resistant bacteria. A great number
of unidentified medical wastes have polluted the Ganga and has already caused
irreparable damage, the senior scientist added.
Sanskriti Anveshak : Forest Community Interface

‘Recognising and Leveraging Traditional Knowledge of North East India’
In a session broadly related to standards, certification and promotion of traditional
knowledge and practices two nationally acclaimed experts delivered lectures in a Sanskriti
Anweshak event held on September 3, 2017 at VKIC’s conference room.
As part of the ongoing lecture series on Forest-Community Interface. Sri Anil Jauhri,
CEO, National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB), spoke on
Leveraging Standards for National Good.
He explained Standards and Certifications as steps to ensure quality of a long list of
products, systems and processes. India, unfortunately, has not been up to the mark in
ensuring quality of many of these. It needs to set in motion initiatives that improve the
quality of goods and services to benchmarks which are globally acceptable.

India also suffers in a situation in which a whole range of products are unregulated.
Along with many other things like chemicals and machinery, we also have a huge toy
market that abides by no regulation. The result – many toys and playthings have been
found to be made of harmful and toxic materials. The market is also being flooded by
cheap imports which producing countries are debarred from selling in countries of
Europe. The need for regulation in such areas cannot be ignored.
Over a period of time
standards can be used to raise
benchmarks. An example of
which is the flushing system
used in our toilets. There was
a point in time, where the
prevailing design dispensed
12.5 litres of water in one
release. With better design it
was brought down to 10
litres, resulting in saving
precious water.
Today the issue of standards and certification has reached new levels in markets of
some economically advanced countries. Handicraft products made in India are expected
to mention whether the wood came from a sustainably harvested forest. New
developments such as chain of custody certification, traceability of many consumer
goods have created a complex situation.
In a significant development the National Accreditation Board for Certification
Bodies (NABCB) has been able to provide Yoga Certification. The initiative launched
on International Yoga Day 2015 offers certification for yoga teachers and instructors
and also for training schools for yoga.
Standards and certificates are steps towards use of better goods and services, and
India needs to have a “standards culture.” The country must embrace these, and Indians
are capable of doing it.
In the second lecture, Dr Debjani Roy, Advisor, Quality Council of India, spoke on
Voluntary Certification Scheme for Traditional Community Health Practitioners of India.
Efforts are on to certify traditional healers in the country who have had long
experiences of treating patients for a number of ailments. Special care is taken to verify
their competence through cross checks from people in their proximity, and only then
the process of certification takes place. They have to possess the minimum level of
competence in order to receive the provisional certification in the first place. There will
be thorough scrutiny of the applicants in stages, and finally they will undergo a rigorous
oral test which will be accompanied by demonstration of their practice. dc

‘Namghar Eti Sanskritik Sikhayalay’
(Follow up of Sanskriti Anveshak on Namghar)
Sri Pulin Kalita, a senior journalist working with the Dainik Assam newspaper,
delivered a lecture on the topic ‘Namghar Eti Sanskritik Sikhayalay’ (Namghar – A
school for cultural education) in Mangaldoi on July 16, 2017. The event that was part of
a follow up activity of VKIC’s research work on the Namghar was held with support
from Viveknanda Kendra’s Mangaldoi branch.
Sri Kalita, who is carrying out research
on Vaishnavite culture of Assam, provided
visual documentation of a number of
Namghars stating that architecturally they
have evolved from a distinct shape that was
originally conceived by Srimanta
Sankardeva’s followers near about his time.
It was initially built on certain principles of
architecture, but with time some of those
have become diluted. However, they still
continue to have an east-west orientation
with the Manikut in the east.
Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, a cultural icon of
Assam, had visited and made notes on many
Namghars and found that they have some
modernistic features just like some other
buildings of his time. In many villages the
Namghar used to be the biggest structure, thanks to the participation of the villagers in
its construction. An array of sculptures can be found in a Namghar, which include
Namsingha, Garuda, Jai-Bijoi to name a few. Many of the old ones have intricate wood
carvings of natural objects and figurines, revealing aesthetic taste.
One of the main attractions of a Namghar is the Thapana. It could be several feet
in height containing three, five or seven platforms one stacked on top of the other. It
usually has beautiful carvings in attractive hues. Jyoti Prasad Agarwala saw in it a

“cubist design;” in a way it predates the cubism movement that emerged in 20th
century Europe.
It has to be mentioned that there is no bar for anyone to enter a Namghar and
participate in its religious activities. During one of his visits to Assam Mahatma Gandhi
had recognised the egalitarian philosophy sustaining the Namghar and remarked,
“What I have been saying against untouchability, Sankardeva had stated five hundred
years ago.”
The longevity of the institution as a religious and spiritual centre can be attested by
the fact that they continue to be crucial to some isolated communities too. Maranga
Namghar in Meghalaya’s Ri Bhoi district is still a venue of worship for fifty familes,
which continue to pray in it even while being surrounded by a large population of a
different faith. They attend weekly prayers in which they read the Kirtan and Bhagavat
written in the Roman script, because they no longer can read in Assamese.
While they differ in architectural style to some extent, the definitive character of
the Namghar remains the same – they are venues for Upasana, where Assamese
Vaishnavites read the Ghoxa and carryout Naam Prasanga and may also hold Bhaona.
Sattriya Nritya is intrinsically connected to the Namghar in many parts of Assam.
This distinct form of classical dance displays grace, fluidity and fine expressions of
artistes in elegant attire. The dance and the accompanying music are among the most
appreciated forms of the region’s cultural expression. Bhaona – an amalgamation of
music, dance and dialogue too has roots in the Namghar.
The cultural role of Namghar is highlighted by traditional practices such as Maati
Akhora, a series of exercises that enables a person to attain physical flexibility and
physical prowess. Done in the correct way it can resemble a fluid dance form.
Unfortunately, the Assamese society is yet to understand and appreciate this, and perhaps
will only do so when some authority from outside will certify this as a great physical
activity. Singing Borgeet and playing the Khol are other performing arts which the
Namghar has been promoting since its inception. Mask making is another craft that
apart from its cultural significance offers economic scope for craftsmen.
In course of time influences from distant cultures have also shaped the Namghar as
a cultural-educational institution. Much earlier in time it did not have walls, which
hinted at its open, all-embracing nature. The practice of touching the feet of elders in a
Namghar was not an original practice either. Even now the institution is undergoing
changes, but its key role as a disseminator of a wide range of cultural knowledge and
practices has remained intact. (Abridged)
dc

Discussion in Diphu on Intellectual Property
Rights and its Status in Karbi Anglong
A discussion cum knowledge sharing programme on ‘Intellectual Property Rights
and its Status in Karbi Anglong’ was initiated by Minakshi Goswami, Junior Research
Fellow, VKIC. The programme was organized on August 13, 2017 at Desoi Homestay,
Diphu, by People’s Initiative for Indigenous Culture & Tradition Consciousness
(PIICATC). Fourteen people including members of Karbi Farmers Association, Trinity
Hills Society, government employees, weavers, researchers and few others attended
and participated in the programme.
The main aim of this knowledge sharing programme was to generate awareness on
the meaning and importance of Intellectual Property Rights for a traditionally and
culturally rich district like Karbi Anglong.
Pointing to the
substandard quality of
traditional Karbi attires
that has now flooded the
local markets, the people
present agreed that the
cultural richness of Karbi
Anglong is exposed to the
threats of extinction. In
this gathering the
importance of
documentation on the
traditional knowledge and
practices of the Karbis was acknowledged and the local people agreed to provide
necessary assistance to VKIC in this endeavour.
The ancient heritage, which defines the cultural identity of the Karbis, needs to be
documented in a planned and methodical way. Many cultural accomplishments of
indigenous communities containing high spiritual and aesthetic qualities have already
disappeared from the North East of India due to rapid socio-economic changes. The
elite among the Karbi community will, hopefully, join hands to ensure that the legacy
of their ancestors will not meet a similar fate.
dc
Gita Jayanti Celebration
Gita Jayanti was solemnly observed in VKIC on Thursday, November 30 at its own
auditorium with a large number of people taking part in the event. Sri Govindramji
Sharma from Belda, Haridwar delivered the oration which centred on the subject –
What Gita tells about Karmayoga. The elder Gita Pracharak mentioned that although
many physical developments were happening all around us, there was an absence of
peace. “People are doing Karma, but is that in accordance with what the Gita says?”
The development we see
around us has not contributed to
the welfare of all. Working for
one’s own narrow interest is not
Karma yoga, our saints and
visionaries make us learn that one
has to go much beyond. They are
remembered and worshiped
because they worked for the good
of others, the welfare of society
and the nation. Swami
Vivekananda had said,
“Expansion is life. Contraction is
death,” and we have to abide by this.
Karma yoga also entails that whatever is performed is in tune with Swadharma.
Equanimity is one of the greatest of quality that the Gita upholds. The wise person sees
no difference among various life forms. The behaviour may vary according to the
relationships they have, but they will perceive everyone as equal. From this viewpoint
of equanimity they try to work with no attachment and seek to bring in welfare for all.
A VKIC publication on Sister Nivedita – the ardent disciple of Swami Vivekananda
– was released on the occasion. The editor of the book, Dr Mukunda Rajbongshi spoke
briefly about the life of the great Indian nationalist who also made significant
contributions to girls’ education.
dc

5th Dr Minati Hazarika Memorial Lecture
Delivering the Dr Minati Hazarika Memorial
Lecture, on December 27, 2017, Dr Ritamoni
Baishya of Gauhati University’s Hindi
Department said: The contribution of Assam to
the Indian Bhakti Movement is substantial. The
main force of the Vaishnavite Movement in
Assam Srimanta Sankardeva was a great seeker
of unity and harmony. Without wading into the
debate of the Saguna and Nirguna, he sought for
the Nirguna through the path of the Saguna.
He paid obeisance to both Rama and Krishna
perceiving them as inseparable. In Sankardeva’s
religious philosophy the Saguna and Nirguna
Margs have become one. All the characteristics
of the Indian Bhakti Movement are evidenced in his vast array of compositions.
Sankardeva and his followers created a large corpus of work that is an intrinsic part
of the Indian Bhakti Movement.
It is due to that fact that Assam was politically removed from the rest of the Bhakti
Movement landscape, and there were no translations available that the Bhakti Movement
here could not be appreciated by a wider audience.
For a change of the situation, translating the works of the Bhakti Movement in
Assam to other languages is a must. It is all the more important that translations are
made available in Hindi, which is the language understood by the largest population in
the country and also because the readers represent a wide cross section of society.
Translation into Hindi will also pave the way for the compositions to be rendered into
other languages.
Dr Baishya endorsed a view of noted academic Dr Nabin Chandra Sarma that
described Sankardeva and his followers as ‘Nava Vaishnav Sampraday.’ The qualities
possessed by other sampradayas or communities of the Indian Bhakti Movement, were
also there among the Vaishnavites of Assam. Like their Indian counterparts, those in
Assam revealed a responsibility towards society through their works and messages.

The Bhakti Movement of Assam had a distinctive feature. Unlike in other traditions,
here the devotee was not given sharan by the feet of the Guru, but was given diksha
under the Bhagvat Purana. Influenced by his Bhakti related religious thoughts,
Sankardeva’s contemporary devotees and poets sought his discipleship. They propagated
his beliefs, and toward that end composed verses and plays. Together they gave a new
life to the Bhakti Movement.
The social and cultural
impact of the phenomenon was
immense. Before the
emergence of the Bhakti
movement in Assam, the social
condition of the region was
deplorable due to various
reasons. Ethical ideals,
intellectual pursuits, were all at
disadvantage in the precarious
situation. There was no easy
path available to embrace
healthy religious ideals for the
common masses. It was in such
circumstances that Sankardeva reestablished the ideals of Sanatana Dharma. Looking
at the other Vaishnav communities of Bharatvarsha, he laid the foundation of Nava
Vaishnav Dharma keeping in mind the prevailing socio cultural milieu.
From the cultural perspective, he was in a league of his own. He was not just a
guru, a poet, dramatist and strong writer; he was a scholar, producer, director, actor,
khol maker, an expert in musical notation, singer, choreographer, painter and thus was
a great personality. In the field of literature his range was wide. His Ankia Naat was a
pioneering effort in ushering in dramatic arts in the region. His finest literary
composition was the Kirtan Ghosha.
It was his great achievement that he was able to show the path of Bhakti to people
across social, economic, class and other divides. Through the Sattra and the Namghar,
he unified the people of Assam. He also contributed significantly towards the
development of language by developing Brajabali. Apart from him, Ram Saraswati,
Ananta Kandali, Madhavdeva and others played their roles in the promotion of religious
literature around the time Bhakti movement was taking root in Assam. (Abridged)
dc

Second Panel Discussion on
‘Development through Culture’
As part of VKIC’s Foundation Day Celebration a panel discussion was organised on
January 27, 2018 in its conference room. Two pioneering textile entrepreneurs Sri
Puberun Sarmah and Saumar Jyoti Sharma spoke about organic dyes and weaving
practices respectively.
Sri Puberun Sarmah with the aid of a power point
presentation revealed the diverse materials from which
organic dyes can be extracted for a variety of textiles.
Many of the materials are available in different parts of
Assam and rest of the North East region. Some
communities have been extracting the dyes in a
traditional way, but now there exists more opportunities
of their commercial use. Many of those dyes go well with
locally available fibres. Inside the country and abroad also
the demand for organic dyes is high. Sources in the North
East from where the raw materials are procured are pollution free hence there is a
higher demand. He was of the view that there is a need for concerted efforts to explore
this virgin area for economic benefits of local communities as well as entrepreneurs.
Sri Saumar Jyoti Sharma shared his thoughts on
weaving and his aim of making traditional handmade
yarn appealing to younger customers. After earning
experience in other places, the young entrepreneur is
working in Assam and has been able to guide and
support a number of weavers. His surveys revealed the
demand for high quality linen, and also for hand spun
by hand spun Eri. It is difficult to compete with China
in manmade fibre, but India has the advantage of having
a predominantly strong handloom presence. In places
of Uttar Pradesh innovative government schemes have transformed the handloom
sector. He underlined the fact that with planning and with the right skill weaving in
Assam can provide a comfortable income that is more than seven or eight thousand
rupees earned by a person working in a city. The scene will get better when the young
generation feel the fashion quotient that traditional weaves are beginning to earn.
dc

Foundation Day 2018
VKIC’s Foundation Day was
celebrated in a solemn manner on January
31, 2018. That evening the prestigious
VKIC Sanmaan was bestowed on Smt.
Gayatri Debi of Agartala, Tripura and Smt.
Jonaki Baro of Dhekiajuli, Assam. They
were each presented with a citation, a
memento, a seleng sador and a cash award.
Welcoming the audience, VKIC’s
Chairman Sri Dipok Kumar Barthakur
described the day as really auspicious
because the Ahom festival of Me-Dam-Me-
Phi was also being celebrated. He said that
VKIC has been carrying out research work
that is of benefit to society. Mentioning the
presence of Dr Arvind Gupta, the
designated speaker on the occasion, the
chairman hoped that he will share his
varied experiences and also strengthen ties
with VKIC in the days ahead.
Jonaki Baro
Receiving the VKIC Sanmaan, Smt.
Gayatri Debi said that the honour was not
just for her but for the many Jati Janajatis of Tripura. The work she and her Ashram
were doing was service to the people. She
sang a devotional song and urged the all
mothers to act as if they were mothers to all
who came their way.
In her acceptance speech, Smt. Jonaki
Baro briefly spoke about her work with
women belonging to indigenous
communities and emphasised the need to
spread awareness of health among them.
Society must do more to help them meet
their health care needs. dc Gayatri Debi

‘Exploring Emerging Opportunities for India
in South East Asia’
Foundation Lecture by
Dr Arvind Gupta, Director VIF
At the outset, I would like to thank

the organisers for inviting me to the
Vivekananda Kendra Institute of
Culture (VKIC) to deliver the
Foundation Day Address. VKIC has
done commendable work in the field of
culture and education in the North-East.
I would like to congratulate them on
their Foundation Day. On entering the
institute premises, I felt a surge of
positive energy. This is because all of you
are selfless workers. One’s faith in
humanity is restored when one meets
people like Smt Gayatri Debi and Smt Jonaki Baro whom you are honouring today.
They are the role models for us as they serve the society selflessly without any
expectations.
The topic given to me today is “Exploring opportunities for India in South East
Asia”. There could have been no better vantage point than Guwahati from which to
speak on this topic. That is because the North East is a gateway to South East Asia and
Guwahati is of the gateway to South East Asia. It is here to where South Asia and South
East Asia meet. Cultures have met here and intermingled for millennia and produced
a unique blend of language, customs and creativity. The region is rich in cultural diversity
and surrounded by Bangladesh, Bhutan, China and Myanmar.
I learnt during my discussions here that there are 3,000 wetlands in Assam. The
future of humanity depends on how we conserve these wetlands and its associated
biodiversity. If we destroy them, either due to manmade or natural reasons like climate
change etc., the future of mankind will be endangered. By preserving the wetlands
and biodiversity, we preserve our culture and our identity. This becomes very evident
when we come to the North Eastern Region.

The North East has a chequered history. For centuries there have been two-way
migrations of people, ideas, trade, commerce and religion. I was reading a book Crossing
the Bay of Bengal by Sunil Amrith, in which he documents how millions of Indians
crossed the Bay of Bengal and went to Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia etc.
for trade and commerce.
The 19th century was full of such migrations. The links were very deep. The migrants
settled down in those parts. That is why Indian culture is so visible in South East Asia.
If you go to Kuala Lumpur you see on the outskirts the Batu caves. The Tamil festival
Thaipusam is organised there. Then we have the Indian National Army (INA) and Subhas
Chandra Bose who undertook to defeat the British and he came all the way from
Singapore to Manipur. There are many such connections and we seem to have forgotten
them. It is only recently that we have realised the importance of cultural connections
with South East Asia.
The intermingling of cultures has taken place over the centuries. Myanmar, which
has over 1,600 km of border with Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, is a
gateway to South East Asia. It also has maritime border with India as do Indonesia and
Thailand. The Andaman Nicobar Islands are closer to Myanmar, Thailand and Indonesia
and to the Malacca Straits than to mainland India. The influence of South East Asia on
India’s North-East and on maritime territories is marked. The cultures of North Eastern
region of India and that of South East Asia have influenced each other.
At the heart of growing India-ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations)
engagement is the 2,000 years old cultural and civilizational ties. The ASEAN region in
ancient times was known as Suvarnabhumi, the land of gold. There are heavy influences
of Hinduism and Buddhism in the region. Hinduism and Buddhism have formed the
crux of India-ASEAN cultural connections. Buddhists from South East Asia undertake
voyages to Bodh Gaya and some other shrines and temples in India. The syncretic
culture of Southeast Asia is evident in Buddhism being practiced in Hindu temples in
Cambodia, Muslim wedding rituals. The dress in Malaysia is based on Hindu rituals
and attires. Naga and Kuber icons are prevalent in both Hindu and Buddhist cultures
and these carvings can be seen in many places. A Mahabharata monument depicting
Krishna and Arjun riding a chariot pulled by eleven horses is placed prominently in a
park in central Jakarta. Southeast Asia absorbed and retained the Indian influence in a
very distinctive manner over the centuries.
The influence of Hinduism is visible in all parts of South East Asia through the rich
Indian architecture. The 9th Century Shaivite temple in Bandung Java, Angkor Wat in
Cambodia, temples in Vietnam, figures of Ramayana and Mahabharata in temples of
Laos and Myanmar. The Ramayana is re-enacted in local languages. The ancient kingdom
of Ayutthaya in Thailand, and the Thai king is still known as Rama. The first organised
Hindu state, Sri Vijaya, was in Indonesia. Champa is a form of fossilized Hinduism of
the Champa tribes. They still follow the worship of Shiva, Parvati and Karthikeya.

Buddhism is equally strong in South East Asia. In Vivekananda International Foundation
we had a big programme – Hindu Buddhist Samvad. It was inaugurated by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi in 2015. We have had two meetings after that. The fourth will
happen in Tokyo in June this year (2018). Buddhists pilgrims come to India from all
parts of South East Asia. People must take care of pilgrimage sites. The Vietnamese
President is visiting in March this year. His first port of call is Bodh Gaya. India, being
the home of Hinduism and Buddhism, has a natural advantage. Even in Muslim rituals
in Malaysia and in other places you find Indian culture being present. They are not
very Arabised or fundamentalist kind of thing. So culture is our strong point.
In March 1947 the Asian Relations Conference took place. There was a feeling of
Asian solidarity. Representatives from Mongolia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and
many other countries came. The idea was that Asian solidarity will emerge. But
unfortunately that didn’t happen. That is because geo-politics took a different turn
altogether. India went to war with China. It dented India’s image. The South East Asian
Treaty Organisation (SEATO), a regional military bloc promoted by the U.S. emerged.
In 1967 ASEAN was formed. India was invited, we did not join. Some of the countries
were viewed as part of the Western bloc. Many fault lines emerged – Vietnam War,
Korean War and internal coups. We could not link up with the growth opportunities.
Some of the countries became ‘tigers’ [powerful economic forces]. Severing of ties
went against our interest. This was the situation till 1990s.
It is ironic that due to geopolitical factors, India and Southeast Asia developed a
distance in the second half of the 20th Century. China’s attack on India in 1962 severely
dented India’s prestige in Asia and India’s efforts to forge close bonds between India
and Asia suffered a severe setback. As Prime Minister I K Gujral said in one of his
speeches in 1996, every aspect of India’s ethos reflects the “footprints of South-East
Asia”, and that “the forces of history and circumstances intermittently disturbed this
closeness. Colonialism and the Cold War, despite our efforts to come together, drew
artificial boundaries between us.”
The South East Asian countries have been undergoing complex political and
economic transformation. The region remained unsettled for several decades. Democracy
took time to take roots in many countries. The region also became an arena of Cold
War rivalries and bloody proxy wars. India thus got cut off from the region. When the
ASEAN was formed in 1967, India was invited to join but it refused. ASEAN was seen
as belonging to the US military camp while India was non-aligned. It is only after the
demise of the Soviet Union that the global balance of power shifted. India had to realign
its policies. It began once again to look towards the East and reclaim its role and place
in the region. The ‘Look East Policy’ was born in 1991 during the tenure of Prime
Minister Narasimha Rao. The process of re-establishing and restoring the severed links
between India and South East Asia is still underway. A lot has been done in the past 25
years but a lot more still needs to be done.

We must appreciate that not being in South East Asia has taken a heavy toll on
India. India’s sensitive North East region has always been impacted by the developments
in South East region. The golden triangle of Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar has been
the main arena for drug trade. The region also has a flourishing illegal arms market
which fuels instability in India’s North East region. Insurgents groups form the North
East find shelter in the neighbouring countries. Our security interests were seriously
jeopardised. Apart from security implications, India missed out on the opportunities
for growth and development. India has a natural role in the region. In India’s absence,
China has moved in rapidly. This has been at the expense of India. India should re-
establish its links with ASEAN quickly. ASEAN is India’s neighbour and has a key role
in India’s security and prosperity.
The process of reaching out to the ASEAN that began 25 years ago has moved in
incremental steps: Look East Policy (1991), sectoral dialogue partner (1992) of ASEAN,
a full dialogue partner (1996), membership of Asian Regional Forum (ARF, 1996),
membership of East Asia Summit (EAS, 2005), Free Trade Agreement (FTA, 2009),
membership of ASIAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM plus, 2013), and the Act
East policy (2014). Presently, a comprehensive economic partnership agreement is under
negotiations. India is also taking part in the Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) negotiations. Security cooperation has expanded with many
countries. Connectivity has improved. What is interesting is that the scope of Asia
Executive Programs (AEP) now extends beyond ASEAN and encompasses Japan, South
Korea, Australia and even Fiji. The concept of Indo-Pacific is also a part of India’s gaze
towards the East.
The point to be noted is that these steps have transformed the relationship but we
are still far away from realising the full potential of India-ASEAN relations. China,
another major presence in the ASEAN, has moved far ahead and is firmly ensconced in
the region. It actively hinders India’s growing engagement with the South Eastern region.
This has impacted India’s security interests adversely. India has taken major steps to
deepen cooperation with the ASEAN. In an unprecedented foreign policy gesture, India
hosted 10 leaders from the ASEAN countries as Chief Guests for its 69th Republic Day
Parade, thereby marking renewed levels of engagement and symbolism between India
and ASEAN. The occasion was also significant as India and ASEAN celebrated 25 years
of their dialogue status. The 25th Summit Meeting marked the emergence of new
consensus on the need for boosting cooperation on wide-ranging issues. The ‘Delhi
Declaration’ signed at the end of Summit Meeting articulated several immediate concerns
as ASEAN and India and called for measures to deepen security, economic and socio-
cultural cooperation, and connectivity. These include joint mechanisms for maritime
transport, trade and a ‘code of conduct’ for the South China Sea.
The changing geo-political environment in the Asian region, characterised by China’s
growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean, its assertion in the South China Sea and

its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have caused serious concerns about stability in the
South East Asian littorals. China has gone and occupied all the islands of South China
Sea; it connects Pacific and Indian oceans. It has also built a lot of military infrastructure.
They have almost built a line that makes South China Sea look like a lake of China.
Thirty to forty per cent of our trade passes through South China Sea. The few steps
they have taken in the last few years have created a lot of apprehension in the minds of
South East Asian countries. They are in a dilemma.
The concerns over security and stability have increasingly drawn India and ASEAN
countries closer. In the past, the Cold War alliance politics had distanced several South
East Asian countries from India. The end of Cold War, however, presented unique
opportunity to reap the potential of geographic proximity between India and ASEAN
countries. Today, the core aspect of India-ASEAN convergence is to enhance maritime
domain awareness in order to preserve maritime security in the region, protect crucial
shipping lanes or the Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs), and address various
traditional and non-traditional security threats in the region. There is continued interest
in strengthening maritime security, combating international terrorism, anti-piracy and
non-traditional transnational threats, and coordinating responses to natural disasters.
Counter-terrorism has emerged as strong point of convergence in India-ASEAN
relations. With counter-radicalisation programmes instituted in Malaysia, Philippines,
Thailand and Indonesia, which correspond to the initiatives taken in India, the Delhi
Declaration embodies the collective cooperation to fight terror in all manifestations.
Fighting terror has also figured into bilateral meetings in India-ASEAN relations.
On trade and connectivity issues, India and ASEAN are extremely important for
each other. With 644 million population and combined GDP of $2.7 trillion, ASEAN is
a large economy. It also enjoys annual per capita income of $4,200. If you combine
India and ASEAN, you have a $5 trillion economy, third largest in the world after the
US and China. There are a multitude of connectivity projects between India and ASEAN
to enhance economic cooperation and developing regional connectivity into Southeast
Asia through a host of linkages across the air, land and sea. India has commissioned $1
billion credit in December 2017 to build connectivity with Southeast Asia and $77
million towards developing manufacturing hubs in the Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar
and Vietnam (CLMV) countries.
In terms of land connectivity, the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral (IMT) Highway
proposed in 2002 has been delayed to 2020 from the stipulated completion in 2015.
The initiative linking Moreh in Manipur, India, Mae Sot in Thailand and Bagan in
Myanmar was further extended to link the Highway through Laos, Cambodia and
Vietnam in its second phase. The project has seen impediments in the form of difficult
mountainous terrain, resistance by certain insurgent groups and issues of cooperation
between India, Myanmar and Thailand, which needs to be sorted amicably. In 2016,
India and Myanmar signed Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) for the

improvement and construction of bridges in the IMT, within which India agreed to
repair 69 bridges along the Highway and provide assistance for various road stretches
in Myanmar. Accordingly, India has successfully completed upgrading the Tamu-
Kalewa-Kalemyo 160 km section whereas work on the Kalewa-Yargi sector is ongoing
by the Border Roads Organisation. Prime Minister Modi has established a Special Task
Force reinforced with financial assistance to overcome the obstacles and ensure that
the new deadline of 2020 is fulfilled.
The sea connectivity from India to Southeast Asia has been linked from the Kaladan
multi-modal transit route. It seeks to connect Kolkata to Sittwe Port in Myanmar which
then extends to Lashio through the Kaladan River, returning to Lashio and Mizoram
by road. Maritime connectivity between India-ASEAN is being enhanced through
development of shipping links between the Eastern seaboard of India - Ennore, Vizag,
Chennai and Sagar - to the CLMV countries as well as improvement of existing links
with established partners such as Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand. India
has also undertaken the Sagarmala project for port modernization and development,
improving port connectivity, coastal community development and port-linked
industrialization, in order to integrate India’s maritime sector into the economy and
thereby enhance trade volume with the ASEAN countries.
The Way Forward
Indian policymakers had long realised the strategic importance of the ASEAN region.
The Act East Policy is a push in the right direction that is focused on strengthening
relations through greater economic and cultural exchanges. To sustain the current levels
of partnership and synergy, however, it requires lot more groundwork as progress
remains stunted on several key issues.
For instance, the RCEP negotiations launched in 2012 have been held up, largely
because of Indian concerns over unfettered access to Chinese goods, and ASEAN
resistance to movement of Indian services and labour. Further, trade in services remains
largely protected in ASEAN member countries. The services sector is a major source of
India’s GDP growth while the ASEAN countries are mainly the manufacturing-based
economies. As India has a comparative advantage in services and IT-related sectors,
domestic regulations in ASEAN economies need to be liberalised to promote cross-
regional cooperation. The two-sides stand to grow immensely by drawing on their
complementary economic strengths.
The other major incomplete project is on connectivity between ASEAN countries
and India, as well as India’s connectivity through its Northeast to Myanmar and beyond.
Work on extension of the IMT Trilateral Highway, the Kaladan multi-modal highway,
and Tamu-Kalay rail link to Myanmar has lagged behind deadlines. These projects
need to be completed expeditiously. The 25th Summit Meeting also drew attention to
issues of improvement in border infrastructure, especially the border posts, and

infrastructure in the Northeast for attracting investment in the region. The challenges
of inadequate physical connectivity (road and rail linkages), along with
infrastructural bottlenecks (non-tariff barriers) also need to be addressed to
strengthen India-ASEAN partnership.
India and ASEAN have strengthened information sharing to combat non-traditional
security threats in the region through regional agreements such as the Regional
Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and through combined initiatives to
strengthen regional maritime institutions such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association
(IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). The outlook for India-ASEAN
maritime cooperation of 2017 identified areas of high potential for collaboration in
intelligence-sharing between Singapore’s Information Fusion Centre (IFC) and India’s
Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) for enhanced maritime domain
awareness. Due to sensitivities of sharing water spaces, the IFC could provide information
on the submarine movements to the IMAC, in order to develop India’s maritime
surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.
Cyber Security cooperation has also been the focus of India-ASEAN relation. The
focus is to strengthen cyber-security capacity building and policy coordination including
support through the implementation of the ASEAN Cyber Security Cooperation
Strategy, and ASEAN Regional Framework Plan on Security of and in the use of
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The First ASEAN-India Cyber
Dialogue is also proposed to be held in 2018. Delhi has strategic dialogues with the
major states in Southeast Asia and holds military exercises with them from time to
time. The Indian Navy makes regular port calls. It trains personnel and repairs
equipment. It sells arms and provides military credits to some.
Conclusion
The challenge before India is how to upgrade its relations with ASEAN. The Act
East Policy will not succeed unless we bring the North East into the policy in a big way
and that can be done through better connectivity, better border management, more
people to people contact, and I think deeper cultural connect. Because the culture of
North East is very rich and it influenced South East Asian countries like Myanmar,
Thailand etc. So if we have to bring the North East into our discourse – India ASEAN
discourse – the North East can play a big role through culture, connectivity and so on.
And if the trilateral highway comes through it will also bring in lots of opportunities
for the development of the North East. So with these words I would like to stop here
and thank the organisers for giving me the opportunity to share some of my thoughts.
Once again I wish you all the very best.
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New Book Releases
Sister Nivedita – The Path Finder

The VKIC, as a part of the larger Vivekananda Kendra
Family, treads on the philosophical vision of Swami
Vevekananda who had groomed her as a soul dedicated to our
motherland – hence her name Nivedita. On her 150th birth
anniversary a book was published that celebrates the noble soul
taking into account her varied and fascinating activities which
spanned India as well as foreign countries. It contains articles
on her life and contributions in Assamese, English and Bengali.
Kamrupia Dhulia – Their lives and legacy

The booklet on the traditional drummers of three areas of
Kamrup district is a testament of the condition in which the
performers find themselves today. With a backdrop of their
economic condition, their practice, their instruments, it
mentions the pujas and occasions in which they play a vital
role. It further comes up with recommendations based on first
hand interaction about securing their art and craft for posterity.
India’s Unity in Literature and History:

Concept and Practice
This is a text of the sixth Radha Nath Phukan Biennial
Memorial Lecture delivered by noted thinker and writer Michel
Danino. It explores the reality of India’s unity as expressed in
ancient literature from different parts of our motherland.
Religious traditions also reflect a reality that has been ignored,
but which needs to be understood and appreciated.

Development through Culture
The second edition of Sri S Gurumrthy’s acclaimed book
brings in more information about the premise that India’s
cultural ethos and practices can be harnessed for development
that is scaleable, holistic and inclusive. The author points out,
forcefully and rationally, that working on our strong cultural
traditions can be a better, more efficient way of triggering and
sustaining economic progress allied to community growth and
co-operation.
The Teachings of Elders

Kong Bijoya Sawian’s English translation of Ka Jingsneng
Tymmen was published as a second edition. From the personal
civic habits, modes of conducts between people in different
positions in the community, the perennial ideals of personal
and public conduct is presented through verse in the book. It
was written with the aim that the wisdom of the elders could
be kept alive though words and practice to sustain a way of
life that is honest, peaceful and dignified.
Quest – The VKIC Journal

Volume XI No. 1 issue of Quest (the VKIC Journal) was
published, based on the theme: ‘Emerging threats to Indigenous
Culture of NE India.’ It comprises nine articles by scholars who
are well acquainted with facets of India’s indigenous
communities, their ancient culture and the risks they confront
today. The sweep of the articles is broad, and some provide
new insights about indigenous customs, traditional knowledge
and modes of living.
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VKIC, Yoga Activities
Due to our expert

trainers and carefully
designed modules, Yoga has
emerged as a dynamic area of
activity for VKIC. Regular
sessions are held in our own
premises at Uzan Bazar
Riverside, beginning on the
first day of each month. The
VKIC offers modules which
are customised to cater to
different types of learners.
Experienced yoga instructors
provide training to
organisations and groups for
fixed periods. VKIC master trainers have shared their knowledge and skills with people
in more than 45 venues, which include over a dozen reputed institutions like Gauhati
University, Cotton College,
Reserve Bank of India, Tata
Institute of Social Sciences,
Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya,
North East Frontier Railway,
among others. International
Yoga Day 2018 was
celebrated in the biggest
manner ever. Trainers from
VKIC guided people in
doing yoga in 76 venues
across Guwahati.
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Some events in which VKIC karyakartas participated
Kum Sujatha Nayak
Public Programmes - Universal Brotherhood Day
w 2. September 2017 - Public Programmes - Universal Brotherhood Day -
Durgapur, West Bengal.
w 5 September 2017 Camellia Institute of Technology, Kolkata
w 6 September 2017 - ‘We are the creator of our own destiny; - Kolkata University.
w 8 September 2017, ‘We are the creator of our own destiny’ - Scottish Church
College, Kolkata. (This was the college where Swami Vivekananda(Narendranath
Dutta) studied.)
Invited Talks delivered in the course of workshops/ symposium/ programmes

organised as part of Sister Nivedita’s 150 Birth Anniversary Celebrations
w Spoke on ‘Jaag Matri Shakti tu Jaagre - Bhagini Nivedita and Maatru Shakti’ at
a massive Women’s Conclave on 3 September, 2017. Venue:Margaret (Sister
Nivedita) School, Siliguri, West Bengal.
w Invited talk on Sister Nivedita and Women’s Empowerment. at the National
Seminar on Sister Nivedita held on 8 September, 2017 at Ramakrishna Mission
Institute of Culture, Golpark, Kolkata. Organised by several organisations
under a common banner ‘Bhagini Nivedita Sardhsatabarsha Udjapan Samiti’,
West Bengal
w Spoke on two topics (1) Education and National Security - Relevance of Sister
Nivedita’s ideas on Education and (2) How to assert and defend our culture. 15
October, 2017 at Ramakrishna Sarada Mission, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh
w October 2017 -’Bhagini Nivedita - Social Service and Indian Leadership’ National
Orientation Workshop on Role of Women to strengthen the Nation – In perspective
of Bhagini Nivedita, onOctober 28 -29, 2017 organised by SNDT Women’S
University, Mumbai, and Shakti.- A National Movement for Women.
w November 2017 - Spoke on ‘What makes a woman reverential and respectful’ at
the Sister Nivedita 150 Birth Anniversary Celebrations organised on 5 November,
2017 by Sri Sarada Math, Ernakulam, Keralam.

Special Programme
w Interactive talk on ‘Managing Professional Pursuits, Inner Conflicts and
Purposeful Living’ North-East Calling – a Vivekananda Kendra
Kanyakumari forum to build better understanding about NEI. Venue:
Chitnavis Centre, Nagpur.
Seminar
w ‘It is all in the Perspective – Revering Northeast India’ Invited talk delivered at
the National Symposium on ‘Re-transforming Bharateeya Education, Science
& Technology’ held on 24 & 25 March, 2018 at IIT Guwahati. Organised by:
IGNCA, IIT-Guwahati, Gauhati University, Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal &
Research for Resurgence Foundation
Dr Sushma Wanengbam
w Presented a paper on, “Umang Lai of Manipur: Ancestral Beliefs and
Conservation” – at the First National Symposium on Retransforming Bharatiya
Education, Science and Technology, BEST, 2018, IIT Guwahati, India, during
24th to 25th March, 2018.
Dr Kathakali Bhattacharjee
w Attended a workshop in Dimapur, Nagaland From 8 December to 10 December
2017, on “Social Responsibility”. Janajati Vikash Samiti, Nagaland (Kalyan
Ashram) and Zeliangrong Heraka Youth Organisation Dimapur jointly organised
the workshop. Spoke on “World Religion (Indigenous Faith and its Relevance)”
and “Challenges and Response” during the programme.
w Attended a Seminar entitled ‘Gyan Sangam’ organised by Intellectual Forum of
North East on 10th and 11th February, 2018 in Gauhati University.
w Presented a paper from VKIC on “Culture nurtures unity: with special reference
to Arunachal Pradesh” in the First National Symposium on ‘Retransforming
Bharatiya Education, Science and Technology’ hosted at IIT Guwahati. The
symposium was organised on 24th and 25th March 2018 by IIT Guwahati, Gauhati
University, Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal, Research for Resurgence Foundation
New Delhi, Indira Gandhi National Centre of Arts, New Delhi.
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VKIC Reference Library
New Arrivals from April 2017 to March 2018
Sl No. Title Author
1. Megalithic Splendour of the Dhansiri Dr. Pradip Sarma
Valley of North East India
2. Traditional Customs and Rituals of Edited by Dr. P. C. Sarma
North-East India, Vol. I
3. Traditional Customs and Rituals of Edited by Dr. P. C. Sarma
North-East India, Vol. II
4. Traditional System of North East India VKIC
5. Socio-Religious Tradition of Grater Lumding VKIC
6. Reading Sankardeva : Marginelity and Indianness Ranjit Kumar Dev Goswami
7. Culture and Nationalism Dr. N. S. Rajaram
8. Twelve Essay on Terrorism : A brief analysis Lt. Gen. Gautam Banerjee
9. Nirbachita Prabandha Dr. Birinchi Kumar Baruah
10. Swadhinata Sangramar Asomiya Geet aru Kavita Dr. Nirmal Prabha Bordoloi
11. Asomiya Sishu Sahityar Nirbachita Chutigalpa Santanoo Tamuly
12. Prem Chandar Bachokbania Sisu Golpa Translated by:
Bhupendra Roy Choudhury
13. Putala Nachar Itikatha Rajen Saikia
14. Gunabhiram Barua - A Monograph Jogendra Narayan Bhuyan
15. Nirbacita Adhunik Asomiya Natak: Editor: Pona Mahanta
An Anthology of Selected Modern Assamese Plays
16. Nirbacita Adhunik Asomiya Natak: Editor: Pona Mahanta
An Anthology of Selected Modern Assamese Plays
17. Dr. Kanak Chandra Barooah Dr. Manjumala Das,
Sri Surajit Baruah
18. Indology : Past, Present and Future Editor : Saroja Bhatta
A collection of seminer papers
19. Sri Aurobindo : The Hour of God: Manoj Das
Selections from his writings

20. An insight into “Bendienkhlam Festivals” Lamar, Dawmanchub
21. Tibet - Perspectives and Prospect Shukla, Prabhat P. (Editor).
22. The Kashmir Narrative Bannerjee, Lt. Gen. Gautam
23. China’s Greet War Machine in the Sino Indian Context Bannerjee, Lt. Gen. Gautam
24. Strategic Discourse on the people’s Rupublic of Bannerjee, Lt. Gen. Gautam
China - Millitery Power and Politics
25. Indo- US partnership : Asian Challanges and Beyond Shukla, P. P.
26. The Quad Plus – Towards a shared strategic vision for Lohman W. Lt. Gen. Ravi K.
the Indo - pecefic. Sawheny Andrew Devies,
Ippeita Nishida
27. Decoding India’s deberu procurement : Edited by:
An Anlysis of Defence Procurment Procedure - 2013 Vij. N.C. Gen (Retd.)
28. Perspective on Transforming Indis - Central Edited by: Anand, Vinod
Asia Engagement Prospects and Innes
29. Securing India – VIF Perspective Editorial Board - Satish
Chandra, Lt. Gen. Ravi
Sewhney, Lt. Gen. Gautam
Benerjee, Ashok Kantha
30. Nehru - A Troubled Legecy with Rare R. N. P. Singh
letters of Gandhi, Nehru and Patel
31. Ramesh Chandra Chaudhuri : Editors:
Ek Durlov Byaktita Paramananda Mazumdar
Anurupa Hazarika,
Atanu Kr. Choudhury
32. Srimat Bhagavat Gita –
33. Conversation with Myself Padma Kanta Bora
34. Prabha Editor - Kakoli Dutta
35. Prabandha Sourabh Ganesh Chandra Kurmi
36. Sino – India Boundary Dispute and Indo-Centric Mj. Gm. V. K. Srivastava
Reflections on China’s Military Capabilities,
Thoughts Options in the Near Future
37. China – One Belt and One Road Initiative, Gautam Sen
Strategic and Economic Implications
38. ZARB - e - AZB : an evaluation of Pakistan Sushant Sareen
Army’s Anti - Taliban operation in
North Waziristan
39. Frame work of Indo-Japanese Stretegic VIF-JINF joint study
Partnership Co-operation

40. India : Internal security Challanges and Responses Prakash Singh
41. Chinese Intelligence : Ajit Duval, K.C.
From a Party outfit to Cyber Warrior
42. Russia, Europe and The United State: Dr. Harun dev Sekhon
Emerging Power Play
43. China’s 21st Century Maritime Silk Road : Gopal Suri
Old String with New Paarls ?
44. Revisiting India’s Dissaster Respons Mechanism Round Table Conference
(May 6th, 2016)
45. Towards Stable Afganistan : The way forward Occasoonal Paper :
Joint Paper by VIF & RVSI
46. The Shanghai Co-operative Organisation : Nirmala Joshi
An Assessment
47. Durand Line : History, Lagality and Future Arka Biswas
48. Freebies and Good Governance Balmiki Prasad Singh
49. Coridor Calculas : China Pakistan Economic Sushant Sarun
Corridor and China’s Comprador Investment Model
in Pakistan
50. Awaiting RMA : India Army, stretegic Gap in India’s Lt. Gen. Davandar Benerjee
Net Centricity, what is Cyber Security : Structure and
Challanges : India
51. Communist Party : PLA Equation in China Lt. Gen. Gautam Banerjee
52. Bordar of Arunachal Pradesh...... S. M. Krishnatry.
53. Right to Information Act. 2005- A Primer Suchi Panda, Sekhar Singh
54. Folklore in Assam Jogesh Das
55. Tribal life in India Nirmal Kumar Bose
56. The Brahmaputra Arup Kr. Dutta
57. Commemorating Vivekananda Ramkrishna, Mission,
Balurmath
58. Glimses of Garo Heritage and philosophy Prabodh M. Sangma
59. The Traditional Dancer of the Garos S. C. Marak, D.R. Sangma
60. Jodoreng : The Psycho-physical culture of Garos D.R. Sangma.
61. The Inner line Regulation for the Prof. Milton S. Sangma
Garo Hill District under British Rule
62. Khasi Folk Tales Bijoya Sawian
dc

Chairman : Sri Dipok Kr. Barthakur
Director, RAC : Dr. Parimal Ch. Bhattacharjee
Associate Director (Hon.) : Dr. Kalyan Das
Associate Director : Sri Prabal Kr. Das
Associate Secretary : Dr. Rahul S Majumdar
Treasurer : Sri Ramswaroop Lakhotia
Administrative Officer : Sri Pranab Jyoti Brahmachary
Research Advisory Council, Members : Prof. Mrinal Miri

Sri Atulananda Goswami
Prof. A. C. Bhagabati
Sri Dhirendranath Bezboruah
Dr. Joram Begi
Prof. Shiela Bora
Prof. Priyam Goswami
Dr. Dipanka Saikia
Dr. Sukanya Sharma
Executive Council, Members : Sri B. L. Purohit

Sri Dipankar Mahanta
Smt. Bharati Nandi
Dr. Jyotirupa Sarma
dc

DONORS
(Contributing Rs. 5,000 and above)
SL.NO NAMES & ADDRESSES ANNUAL FOUNDATION GENERAL

DONATION DAY DONATION
1. Dr. A. K. Trehan
C-3/ 185, Janak Puri 6,200/-
New Delhi
2. Shri Shiva Raj Sharma 5000/-

Prant Sah Sanchalak, Rajasthan,
Ajmer
3. Sitaram Jindal Foundation 10,000/-

11 Green Avenuee, Bhatta Road,
Behind Sector D - 3,
Vasant Kunj,
New Delhi- 110070
4. Shri Ram Swaroop Lakhotia

C/o. Vinayak Sales Corporation 11,000/-
G.S. Road, Bora Service
Ulubari, Guwahati - 5
5. M/S All Assam Brickfield Owners 11,000/-

Sorder Santosh Singh House,
Gopinath Nagar, Kalapahar,
Guwahati - 781016
6. Radhakrishna Siotia Charitable 20000/-

Trust,
SRCB Road, Fancy Bazar
Guwahati

VKIC PUBLICATIONS
Sl No. TITLES Price Rs.
1. Aspects of Land Policy in Assam : Continuity and Change 550/-
2. Heritage of Kamakhya on the Nilachala Hills - (Hardbound) 450/-
3. Heritage of Kamakhya on the Nilachala Hills - (Paperback) 300/-
4. Golden Vine of Ri-Hynniewtrep: The Khasi Heritage 250/-
5. Traditional Culture of the Rabhas of Assam
(Report Based on Field Investigations) (Hardbound) 220/-
6. Traditional Customs and Rituals of Northeast India -Vol.II 200/-
7. Imprints of the past 175/-
8. Glimpes of the Sattra Institution of Asom 150/-
9. Survey of the Buddhist Monasteries of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh 150/-
10. Traditional Systems of the Tangsa and the Tutsa 150/-
11. The Teaching of Elders (Ka Jingsneng Tymmen) 150/-
12. Sister Nivedita – The Pathfinder 150/-
13. Traditional Customs and Rituals of Northeast India- Vol.I 125/-
14. The Dimasa : Child of the Big River 100/-
15. Traditional Systems of the Wanchos of Arunachal Pradesh 100/-
16. The Sattra Institution of Assam - An Overview 100/-
17. The Main Ceremonies of the Khasi 150/-
18. Development through Culture 150/-
19. Social & Cultural Continuum in India with Special Focus on Northeast India 75/-
20. Traditional Systems of the Dimasa 75/-
21. Traditional Systems of the Noctes 75/-
22. New Perspectives from the Srimad Bhagavad Gita 50/-
23. India’s Unity in Literature and History: Concept and Practice 50/-
25. Kamrupia Dhulias – Their Lives and Legacies 50/-
27. Socio-Religious Traditions of Greater Lumding 40/-
28. Thoughts for the Modern Woman Inspired by the Holy Mother Sarada Devi 40/-
29. Traditional Systems of Northeast India: Along Seminar 20/-
30. Traditional Systems of Northeast India: Pasighat Seminar 20/-
31. Living in Harmony - (2nd impression) 20/-
32. Reading Sankaradeva: Marginality and Indianness (2nd impression) 20/-
33. Vedanta in the Nuclear Age 15/-
34. Culture and Nationalism 10/-
dc

FROM NO. 10B
(SEE RULE 17B)
AUDIT REPORT UNDER SECTION 12A(b) OF THE INCOME TAX ACT,

1961 IN THE CASE OF CHARITABLE OR RELIGIOUS TRUSTS OR
INSTITUTION
We have examined the annexed Balance Sheet of VIVEKANANDA KENDRA

INSTITUTE OF CULTURE, M.G. Road, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati as at 31st March, 2018
and the Income & Expenditure Account for the year ended on that date which are in
agreement with the books of account maintained by the said trust.
We have obtained all the information and explanation which to the best of our
knowledge and belief were necessary for the purpose of the audit. In our opinion, proper
books of account have been kept by the Head Office of the above named trust visited
by us so far as appears from our exmination of the books, subject to the comments
given below :
NIL
In our opinion and to the best of our information, and according to explanations
given to us, the said accounts give a true and fair view:
(i) In the case of the Balance Sheet, of the state of affairs of the above named
trust/institution as at 31st March, 2018 and
(ii) In the case of the Income and Expenditure Account, of the excess of Income
over Expenditure for the year ended 31st March, 2017.
The prescribed particulars are annexed hereto.
For N. K. PAREEK & ASSOCIATES

Chartered Accountants
Sd/
N. K. Pareek
Dated : 04.07.2018 (Proprietor)
Place : Guwahati PAN: AKIPP8616P
M.No: 062624
FRN: 325482E

M.G. Road, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati - 781001
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st MARCH, 2018
SCH 2017-2018 2016-2017

Rs. Rs.
I. SOURCES OF FUNDS
Capital Fund A 25,18,229.45 20,86,098.95

Loan Liabilities B 7,00,000.00 0.00
Current Liabilities and Provisions C 1,29,816.00 50,210.00
Total : 33,48,045.45 21,36,308.95
II. APPLICATION OF FUNDS

Fixed Assets and Other Assets D 11,11,015.46 9,13,710.46
Investments E 12,80,000.00 5,00,000.00
Current Assets, Loans and Advances F
Current Assets 9,57,029.99 7,04,598.49
Loans and Advances 0.00 18,000.00
Total : 33,48,045.45 21,36,308.95

Sd/
N. K. Pareek
M.No: 062624
FRN: 325482E

Schedule of Assets & Liabilities to Balance Sheet as at 31-03-2018
SCHEDULE ‘A’ CAPITAL FUND 2017-18 2016-17

Opening Balance 20,86,098.95 22,26,242.95
Add: Grant Received (NCW) 2,80,000.00 –
Less: Excess of (Expenditure)/ Income 1,52,130.50 (1,40,144.00)
Total : 25,18,229.45 20,86,098.95
SCHEDULE ‘B‘ LOAN LIABILITIES:

(a) VK Assam Prant 7,00,000.00 0.00
SCHEDULE ‘C‘ CURRENT LIABILITIES AND PROVISIONS
(a) Current Liabilities :
Auditorium Advance 42,500.00 22,000.00
Sundry Creditors 44,100.00
(Otis Elevator Ltd.)
Security Deposit (Library) 4,365.00 90,965.00 4,365.00 26,365.00
(b) Provisions:
Rates & Taxes 16,595.00
Electricity Charges 19,956.00 19,096.00
Telephone Charges 2,300.00 4,749.00
38,851.00 23,845.00
Total: 1,29,816.00 50,210.00
SCHEDULE ‘D‘ INVESTMENTS
FD with Nagarik Samabay Bank 5,00,000.00 5,00,000.00

(Minoti Hazarika Memorial Lecture)
FD with State Bank of India 7,80,000.00 0.00
Total: 12,80,000.00 5,00,000.00

CURRENT ASSETS, LOANS AND ADVANCES
SCHEDULE ‘E‘
(a) Current Assets:
Closing Stock of VKIC Publications 3,07,691.00 3,09,159.00
Tax Deducted at Source 29,623.00 18,140.00
Cash in Hand 0.00
Cash at Bank:
Savings Bank a/c no. 5694
with UBI, Silphukuri 1,72,397.52 1,47,573.77
Savings Bank a/c no. 87175 with
SBI, Chenikuthi 2,94,009.47 8,03,720.99 1,04,575.72 2,52,149.49
Load Security Deposit with ASEB 42,516.00 42,516.00
Sundry Debtors 48,817.00 41,969.00
Pre-paid Insurance 9,439.00 8,608.00
Accrued interest on Bank FD 21,937.00 32,057.00
Yoga Donation Recevable (IIT - Guwahati) 30,600.00 0.00
Total: 9,57,029.99 7,04,598.49
(b) Loans and Advances:
Arobindo Boro 0.00 12,000.00
Paungeulungbe Newme 0.00 6,000.00
Total: 0.00 18,000.00
List of Sundry Debtors:
Jagatjyoti Baruah (Delhi) 2,205.00 2,205.00
Ariyan Books International 330.00 330.00
Chapala Book Stall 2,957.00 2,957.00
Rgh.B.S. Marbamang, Shillong 2,902.00 2,902.00
Ri Khasi Book Agency, Shillong 3,500.00 3,500.00
D. K. Agencies 0.00 75.00
Kong Bijay Sawain 22,200.00 22,200.00
VK Telegu Prant 0.00 7,800.00
VK Itanagar 2,763.00 0.00
VK Mumbai 9,000.00 0.00
Sama 2,960.00
Total : 48,817.00 41,969.00

Sd/
N. K. Pareek
M.No: 062624
FRN: 325482E
INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR 31st MARCH 2018
SCH 2017-18 2016-17

Rs.... Rs.
I. INCOME:
Donations F 18,59,069.00 10,19,305.00
Interest G 96,195.00 52,669.00
Other Income H 22,32,951.00 17,78,165.00
Publications and Novelties I 3,83,422.00 5,17,695.00
TOTAL: 45,71,637.00 33,67,834.00
II. EXPENDITURE:
VKIC Publications K 3,55,023.00 4,08,720.00
Activity of Objectives J 14,34,422.00 12,90,891.00
Administrative Expenses L 14,84,530.50 13,48,681.00
Repairs and Maintenance M 9,75,562.00 2,86,432.00
Depreciation C 1,69,969.00 1,73,254.00
TOTAL: 44,19,506.50 35,07,978.00
III. Excess of Income Over Expenditure 1,52,130.50 (1,40,144.00)

Sd/
N. K. Pareek
M.No: 062624
FRN: 325482E

M.G. Road, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati - 781 001
Schedules to Income and Expenditure Account as at 31-03-2018
Amount in Rs.
Schedule ‘F’ Donations 2017-18 2016-17
General Donation 8,58,169.00 1,59,503.00
Auditorium Donation 7,77,500.00 6,45,750.00
Annual Donation 11,000.00 22,000.00
Foundation Day Donation 1,42,400.00 91,852.00
Conference Hall Donation 70,000.00 1,00,200.00
Total: 18,59,069.00 10,19,305.00
Schedule ‘G’ Interest Income
Savings Bank account 20,231.00 15,725.00
Interest on FD 75,964.00 36,944.00
Total: 96,195.00 52,669.00
Schedule ‘H’ Other Income
Journal Subscription 1,34,650.00 450.00
Library Membership 580.00 315.00
Yoga Activity 4,35,721.00 3,19,000.00
Yoga Certificate Course Receipts 1,32,000.00 1,58,400.00
Donation for New Publication 30,000.00 -
Contribution from VK NEDF Dib. - 13,00,000.00
Contribution from Minister of Sports of India 15,00,000.00 -
Total: 22,32,951.00 17,78,165.00
Schedule ‘I’ Publications & Novelties
Sale of Publications & Novelties 75,731.00 2,08,536.00
Closing Stock of Publications 3,07,691.00 3,09,159.00
Total: 3,83,422.00 5,17,695.00
Schedule ‘J’ Activity of objectives
Honorarium to Artists, Experts & Scholars 9,71,000.00 9,02,604.00
Celeberations & Programmes 8,001.00 22,761.00
Meeting Expenses 2,457.00 10,079.00
Library Journals and Periodicals 30,293.00 28,663.00
Publication of Annual Report 13,000.00 12,500.00
Journal Publications Expenses 56,100.00 14,360.00
Sanskriti Anveshak 11,510.00 6,977.00
Foundation Day Programme 1,46,482.00 93,496.00

Newsletter Publication 29,100.00 23,350.00
Seminar Expenses 36,419.00 7,715.00
R.N.Phukan Memorial Lecture - 28,213.00
Project Expenses 18,035.00 30,720.00
Yoga Camp Expenses 33,400.00 11,760.00
Yoga Certificate Course Expenses 9,475.00 47,912.00
VKIC Documentary Film 56,993.00 36,581.00
Minati Hazarika Memorial Lecture 12,157.00 13,200.00
Total: 14,34,422.00 12,90,891.00
Schedule ‘K’ VKIC Publication
Opening Stock of VKIC Publication 3,09,159.00 3,61,392.00
New Publication Expenses 45,864.00 47,328.00
Total: 3,55,023.00 4,08,720.00
Schedule ‘L’ Administrative Expenses
Bank Charges 3,087.50 1,437.00
Electricity Charges 2,79,968.00 2,47,920.00
Guest Expenses 73,789.00 93,444.00
Insurance 11,755.00 4,304.00
Postage and Courier 7,179.00 8,675.00
Printing and Sationery 16,917.00 17,243.00
Rates and Taxes 16,595.00 16,595.00
Salary & Allowances 8,67,905.00 7,42,046.00
Staff Welfare 1,29,928.00 86,335.00
Transportation - 2,300.00
Travelling and Conveyance 52,221.00 88,680.00
Total: 14,84,530.50 13,48,681.00
Schedule ‘M’ Maintenance Expenses
Housekeeping 12,347.00 17,178.00
Repair & Maintenance (Electricals) 54,172.00 26,990.00
Repair & Maintenance (Computer) 38,280.00 22,400.00
Annual Maintenance Charges 1,05,471.00 42,574.00
Repairs and maintenance (Building) 2,67,759.00 29,684.00
Generator repairs and maintenance 16,677.00 4,481.00
Repair & Maintenance (Lift) 4,41,000.00 56,800.00
Repair & Maintenance (Vehicle) 4,386.00 6,151.00
Repair & Maintenance (Oth) 35,470.00 80,174.00
Total: 9,75,562.00 2,86,432.00

GUWAHATI
RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2018
RECEIPTS 2017-18 2016-17
OPENING BALANCES:
Cash in hand 0.00 0.00
Cash at Bank 2,52,149.49 2,70,529.49
DONATIONS:
General Donation 8,58,169.00 1,59,503.00
Auditorium Donation 7,77,500.00 3,95,750.00
Yoga Activity 4,01,721.00 3,19,000.00
Yoga Certificate Course Receipts 1,32,000.00 1,58,400.00
Annual Donation 11,000.00 22,000.00
Conference Hall Donation 70,000.00 1,00,200.00
Foundation Day Donation 1,42,400.00 91,852.00
INTEREST:
FD Interest 54,027.00 45,699.00
On Savings Bank Account 20,231.00 15,725.00
OTHERS:
Library Membership 580.00 315.00
Journal Subscription 1,34,650.00 450.00
Auditorium Advance 20,500.00 2,37,000.00
Sale of VKIC Publication 58,968.00 1,84,461.00
Contribution from Mins. of Sports 15,00,000.00 0.00
Grant receive from NCW 2,80,000.00 0.00
Contribution from VK NEDF Dibrugarh 13,00,000.00
Donation for New Publications 30,000.00

ADVANCES & LOANS:
Staff Advance 18,000.00 0.00
VK Assam Prant 7,00,000.00 0.00
INVESTMENT:
FD Encashment 5,00,000.00 5,00,000.00
SUNDRY DEBTORS: 9,915.00 3,500.00
CURRENT ASSETS:
Accrued Interest On FD 32,057.00 0.00
TOTAL RS: 60,03,867.49 38,04,384.49

Sd/
N. K. Pareek
M.No: 062624
FRN: 325482E

GUWAHATI
RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH' 2018
PAYMENTS: 2017-18 2016-17

OBJECTS OF THE TRUST:
Celebrations & Programmes 8,001.00 22,761.00
Sanskriti Anveshak 11,510.00 6,977.00
Honorarium 9,71,000.00 9,02,604.00
Publication of Annual Report 13,000.00 12,500.00
Newsletters Publication 29,100.00 23,350.00
New Publication Expenses 45,864.00 47,328.00
Meeting Expenses 2,457.00 10,079.00
Journal Publication Expenses 56,100.00 14,360.00
Library Journals & Periodicals 30,293.00 28,663.00
Foundation Day Expenses 1,46,482.00 93,496.00
R.N.Phukan Memorial lecture 0.00 28,213.00
Seminar Expenses 36,419.00 7,715.00
Project Expenses 18,035.00 30,720.00
Yoga camp expenses 33,400.00 11,760.00
Yoga Certificate Course Expenses 9,475.00 47,912.00
VKIC Documentary Film 56,993.00 36,581.00
Minati Hazarika Memorial Lecture 12,157.00 13,200.00
REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE:
Annual Maintenance Charges 1,05,471.00 42,574.00
Repair & Renovation (Building) 2,67,759.00 29,684.00
Generator Maitenance 16,677.00 4,481.00
Housekeeping 12,347.00 17,178.00
Repair & Maintenance (Electrical) 54,172.00 26,990.00
Repair & Maintenance (Computer,Elec.Equip.) 38,280.00 22,400.00
Repair & Maintenance (Lift) 3,96,900.00 56,800.00
Repair & Maintenance (Vehicle) 4,386.00 6,151.00
Repair & Maintenance (Oth) 35,470.00 80,174.00
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES :
Bank Charges 3087.50 1,437.00
Electricity Charges 2,60,012.00 2,28,824.00

Travelling & Conveyance 52,221.00 88,680.00
Insurance Expenses 3,147.00 4,304.00
Transportation 0.00 2,300.00
Printing & Stationery 16,917.00 17,243.00
Rates & Taxes 0.00 16,595.00
Postage & Courier 7,179.00 8,675.00
Salary & Wages 8,67,905.00 7,42,046.00
Outstanding Liabilities last year 23,845.00 22,534.00
Pre-paid Insurance 9,439.00 8,608.00
Guest Expenses 73,789.00 93,444.00
Staff Welfare 1,29,928.00 86,335.00
INVESTMENT:
Fixed Deposit Nagarik Samabay Bank 5,00,000.00 5,00,000.00
Fixed Deposit State Bank of India 7,80,000.00 0.00
PURCHASES OF FIXED ASSETS:
Camera 0.00 6,200.00
LCD Projector 0.00 28,200.00
PA System 0.00 19,206.00
Air Conditioner 3,50,926.00 0.00
Fan 16,348.00 0.00
LOANS & ADVANCES:
Staff Loan 0.00 18,000.00
TDS 17-18 8,083.00 0.00
CLOSING BALANCES:
Cash in hand
Cash at Bank 4,66,406.99 2,52,149.49
TOTAL RS: 60,03,867.49 38,04,384.49

Sd/
N. K. Pareek
M.No: 062624
FRN: 325482E


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VIVEKANANDA KENDRA INSTITUTE OF CULTURE

ANNUAL ACTIVITY REPORT

M. G. Road, Uzan Bazar, Guwahati- 781001

With sincere regards,

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 2

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 3

Sanskriti Anveshak : Forest Community Interface

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 4

Sanskriti Anveshak : Forest Community Interface

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 5

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 6

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 7

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 8

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 10

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 11

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 12

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 13

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 14

At the outset, I would like to thank

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 15

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 16

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 17

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 18

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 19

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 20

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 21

Sister Nivedita – The Path Finder

Kamrupia Dhulia – Their lives and legacy

India’s Unity in Literature and History:

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 22

The Teachings of Elders

Quest – The VKIC Journal

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 23

Due to our expert

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 24

Invited Talks delivered in the course of workshops/ symposium/ programmes

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 25

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 26

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 27

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 28

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 29

Chairman : Sri Dipok Kr. Barthakur

Director, RAC : Dr. Parimal Ch. Bhattacharjee

Associate Director (Hon.) : Dr. Kalyan Das

Associate Director : Sri Prabal Kr. Das

Associate Secretary : Dr. Rahul S Majumdar

Treasurer : Sri Ramswaroop Lakhotia

Administrative Officer : Sri Pranab Jyoti Brahmachary

Research Advisory Council, Members : Prof. Mrinal Miri

Executive Council, Members : Sri B. L. Purohit

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 30

SL.NO NAMES & ADDRESSES ANNUAL FOUNDATION GENERAL

2. Shri Shiva Raj Sharma 5000/-

3. Sitaram Jindal Foundation 10,000/-

4. Shri Ram Swaroop Lakhotia

5. M/S All Assam Brickfield Owners 11,000/-

6. Radhakrishna Siotia Charitable 20000/-

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 31

Annual Activity Report, April 2017 - March 2018 32