Ganderbal, October 02 (Scoop News)-Central University of Kashmir (CUK), in collaboration with the Gandhi King Foundation–J&K Chapter, commemorated the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi with a one-day national seminar on “Peace and Non-Violence”, alongside Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 at Tulmulla campus, reaffirming the relevance of Gandhian values of truth, compassion, service, peace and non-violence in contemporary society.
Addressing the participants, Vice Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, deliberated on the practical dimensions of Gandhian philosophy and its relevance for students, institutions and society. He underlined the importance of addressing grievances through peaceful means and observed that Gandhi’s approach to non-violence offers a framework for resolving differences without resorting to confrontation.
He connected Gandhian thought with experiential learning, environmental protection and community service. Referring to the University’s student engagement in academic and cleanliness activities, he highlighted the contribution of Swachhata Abhiyan and appreciated the efforts of the Safai Mitras whose work enables a clean and conducive environment for teaching and learning. Prof. A Ravinder Nath highlighted the responsibility of educational institutions to create knowledge, disseminate it and apply it for societal benefit. He called upon the younger generation and educators to draw inspiration from Gandhian ideals while responding constructively to changing global realities.
Registrar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, Controller of Examinations, Dr. Kaiser Giri, Heads and Coordinators of Departments, faculty members, administrative staff, scholars and students were present.
In his keynote address, National President and Managing Trustee, Gandhi King Foundation, Prof. Prasad Gollanapalli, emphasised that Gandhi’s philosophy transcends the boundaries of time, geography and generations. He observed that the United Nations’ recognition of Gandhi’s birthday as the International Day of Non-Violence reflects the universal significance of his message. “Gandhi’s essential teachings are truth and non-violence,” Prof. Gollanapalli remarked, stressing that all human beings are fundamentally equal and that a genuine culture of peace must begin with inner peace. Prof. Gollanapalli highlighted that non-violence should not remain confined to philosophical discourse but should become part of everyday life. Referring to the continuing influence of Gandhi on global movements, he recalled the contributions of leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela and emphasised the relevance of Gandhian principles in addressing contemporary conflicts and social challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, Coordinator and spokesperson of the Gandhi King Foundation–J&K Chapter, Mr. Mohammad Shahid Khan, described Gandhi not merely as an individual but as a thought and an enduring philosophy. “You can kill a person but you cannot kill a thought,” he said, emphasising that Gandhian ideals of peace, truth and non-violence continue to remain relevant irrespective of changing circumstances. He called upon young people to move beyond material pursuits, cultivate self-discipline and contribute positively to society.
In his welcome address, State President of the Gandhi King Foundation–J&K Chapter, Dr. Muhammad Ayoub Mattoo, highlighted the significance of Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. as symbols of non-violent resistance, truth and peaceful transformation. He described their shared legacy as a “timeless blueprint for humanity” and emphasised that their message of Ahimsa, truth and peaceful resistance continues to offer meaningful pathways for addressing divisions and conflicts.
On the occasion, students who demonstrated outstanding performance and active participation in Swachhata-related activities were felicitated. Winners of the Zero Waste Sports Competition for Safai Mitras were also honoured, along with Safai Mitras for their valuable contribution towards maintaining cleanliness across CUKashmir campuses.
Sr Asst Prof. Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal conducted the proceedings and Dean DSW, Dr. Jehirul Islam, proposed the vote of thanks.
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