A seminar titled ‘Nehruvian Thinking: Path to Progress or Otherwise’ was held on July 19 at Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College. The event was organized by the college’s Political Science Department in collaboration with the Nehru Study Centre of Mangalore University. Dr. Dayananda Naik, Director of the Nehru Study Centre at Mangalore University, inaugurated the seminar. In his address, Dr. Naik highlighted Nehru’s significant contributions to the country, including his roles in establishing democracy and non-alignment policies. He emphasized that, regardless of political ideology, it is important to understand the background and contributions of political figures before critiquing them.
Dr. Naik noted that public opinion about Nehru varies, with both positive and negative perspectives. However, the contributions of Nehru and many other thinkers have been vital in building a healthy nation. He encouraged intellectual growth through reading and exploration, stressing the importance of seminars like this for fostering critical thinking. Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde, Principal of SDM College, presided over the event. Dr. Shalipe A.P., Head of the Political Science Department, delivered the introductory remarks.
Keynote speakers included Udayakumar M.A., retired principal of Mangalore University College, and Dr. Nayana, lecturer at the Nehru Study Centre. Prof. S.N. Kakatkar, Vice Principal of SDM College, along with Political Science faculty members Nataraj H.K., Bhagyashree, and Shivakumar, were also present. The seminar was attended by students and faculty members. Ananth welcomed the gathering, Manasa proposed the vote of thanks, Arpita introduced the guests, and Harshita M.K. compered the program.