The IHAR SCITYA DIALOGUES: Advancing Inclusivity and Equity in Science & Technology

Scitya Foundation, in collaboration with the IHAR Science Cell, recently organized The IHAR Scitya Dialogues on the theme of increasing inclusivity and equity in the Science and Technology ecosystem. The event brought together eminent voices from academia, research, and policy to deliberate on pressing challenges and pathways for building a more just and participatory S&T framework.

The panel featured distinguished experts: Dr. Kinkini Dasgupta Misra (Senior Scientist, INSA), Dr. Kamalika Banerjee (Co-Founder, The Light Mission and Executive Member of IHAR Science Cell), and Dr. Nimita Pandey (Member, W4EAI, UNESCO). The session was moderated by Dr. Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar, Founder of Scitya Foundation and Chair of the IHAR Science Cell.

The discussion traversed a wide spectrum of themes — from the need for responsive governance and equitable policy formulation to participatory approaches in decision-making and the critical role of effective science communication. The panel emphasized that inclusivity in S&T is not merely an ethical imperative but a necessary condition for sustainable innovation and societal progress.

The event witnessed active participation from scholars and students of premier institutions such as IIT Delhi and JNU, alongside policymakers, academics, and industry representatives. The engagement reflected a growing recognition of the importance of collaborative dialogues in shaping the future of science, technology, and innovation in India.

The IHAR Scitya Dialogues marked a significant step towards nurturing an ecosystem where diversity, equity, and inclusion serve as the cornerstones of scientific advancement.