BTSM, IGNOU Jammu discuss academic collaboration and awareness initiatives

JAMMU: Exploring avenues for academic collaboration and research, Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch (BTSM) President Dr Vivek Sharma on Tuesday met Dr Mohan Sharma, Senior Regional Director of the IGNOU Regional Centre, Jammu, to discuss higher education, Himalayan studies, Indo-Tibetan cultural relations and public awareness initiatives.

The meeting, held at the IGNOU Regional Centre, lasted nearly an hour and focused on strengthening cooperation in education, research and intellectual engagement. Dr Mohan Sharma, who heads the Regional Centre, oversees admissions, examinations, learner support services and other academic and administrative functions across the region.

During the interaction, the two discussed the role of educational institutions in promoting research, cultural awareness and informed public discourse on issues of historical and civilisational importance. They also exchanged views on expanding academic engagement through universities and intellectual forums.

According to the press release, Dr Vivek Sharma briefed the Regional Director on the activities and objectives of the Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch, stating that the organisation works to raise awareness about the Tibetan cause and the historical, cultural and spiritual links between India and Tibet.

The release said Dr Vivek Sharma also outlined the organisation’s position on the Kailash Mansarovar region, describing it as one of BTSM’s principal awareness campaigns. He said Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar hold profound religious and cultural significance for followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and the Bon tradition.

The discussion also covered the scope for promoting research on Himalayan studies, Buddhist traditions, Indo-Tibetan cultural relations and the preservation of ancient civilisational linkages. Both sides agreed that universities, educational institutions and intellectual forums can contribute to informed academic discussions on these subjects.

According to the release, Dr Mohan Sharma appreciated the awareness initiatives undertaken by the organisation and acknowledged the value of academic engagement in fostering understanding of historical and cultural issues.

The meeting concluded with both expressing their willingness to explore future cooperation in education, research and public awareness through academic interactions.