Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India — Ministry of Education · PIB Shimla · Read the original release on pib.gov.in
- Exploring Consciousness Beyond the Mind: Prof. Raj Nehru’s Book Launched
Dharamshala: Himachal Pradesh Central University organized a book launch and a one-day seminar as part of its ongoing efforts to imbibe, promote, and advance the Indian Knowledge System. The programme was held in the Conference Hall at Dhauladhar Campus-I. The event featured the launch of the book “Beyond the Mind: Exploring the Deeper Dimensions of Consciousness — (I Am Shiva: Self-Realization, Awakening and Self-Transformation)”, authored by Prof. Raj Nehru, OSD to the Chief Minister of Haryana and former Vice Chancellor of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, Haryana.
The seminar, organized by the Department of Commerce, was chaired by Prof. Sat Prakash Bansal, Vice Chancellor, Himachal Pradesh Central University. In his presidential address, Prof.Bansal highlighted the broader purpose of education and emphasized that the role of universities is not limited to producing managers or entrepreneurs, but also extends to nurturing good, responsible, and ethical human beings.
Prof. Bansal further stated that, in accordance with the values and vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the University has incorporated various aspects of the Indian Knowledge System into its academic curricula to facilitate the holistic development and personality building of students. He informed the gathering that the book “Beyond the Mind” would also be considered for inclusion in the curriculum to contribute towards the development of human values and inner awareness among students.
The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the distinctive role of humanity in the context of rapid technological advancement. He observed that while Artificial Intelligence is developing at an unprecedented pace, there can be no substitute for human intelligence, empathy, ethics, and human values. Technology can certainly make human life easier, but it is humanity, sensitivity, and the ability to distinguish between right and wrong that provide society with the right direction, therefore, students must develop human qualities alongside technological competence, he emphasized.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Raj Nehru, OSD to the Chief Minister of Haryana and former Vice Chancellor, Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, Haryana, elaborated on the central ideas and various dimensions of his book on the occasion of its launch. Linking self-realization, consciousness, awakening, and self-transformation with holistic human development, he emphasized that the true journey of a human being extends beyond external achievements and leads towards understanding one’s inner consciousness.
Prof. Raj Nehru explained concepts related to consciousness, self-realization, and self-identity in the context of India's rich intellectual and philosophical heritage. Referring to various dimensions of Indian philosophical traditions, including Kashmir Shaivism, he highlighted that the Indian Knowledge System places equal emphasis on an individual's inner development and spiritual awakening alongside external and material growth.
He emphasized that modern education should not restrict students merely to career building. Instead, they should be encouraged to understand themselves, recognize their abilities, discover the purpose of their lives, and fulfil their responsibilities towards society. Such an approach can contribute to the development of balanced, responsible, and socially conscious individuals, he said.
Prof. Dinesh Kumar Aggarwal, Vice Chancellor, Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, Haryana, attended the programme as the Guest of Honour. He stated that the true purpose of education is not merely to obtain a degree or secure employment, but to develop consciousness and sensitivity that enable individuals to make meaningful contributions to the development of society and the nation. According to him, knowledge becomes truly meaningful only when it brings about positive changes in an individual's behaviour, outlook, and sense of social responsibility.
The programme also included discussions on the relevance of human values in the fields of commerce and management education. The speakers emphasized that at a time when business, management, and entrepreneurship are rapidly adopting technological and digital frameworks, the importance of ethical leadership, social responsibility, and a human-centred approach have become even greater.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Chaman Kashyap, Head, Department of Commerce.
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This is an official press release issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), reproduced as issued.
