Bhawanipatna: Department of Anthropology, Maa Manikeshwari University hosted a one-day National Seminar on Anthropology of Health and Well-Being on 30th March. The event chaired by Dr. Nibedita Nath, Vice-Chancellor (I/c), brought together esteemed academicians and researchers to discuss critical issues related to health and nutrition.
The seminar was inaugurated by Professor Subho Roy, from the Biological Anthropology Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. Discussions revolved around pressing health challenges faced by the tribal communities in Sundargarh district, the significant contributions of the Anthropology Department to national surveys, and specialized studies on health and nutrition incorporated into undergraduate and postgraduate curricula.
Distinguished speakers included Professor Prasanna Kumar Patra from Utkal University, Professor Arun Kumar Acharya from Sambalpur University, Dr. Bibhu Kalyan Mohanty, Associate Professor at Gangadhar Meher University, and Dr. Shiv Kumar, Assistant Professor at Adarsh Graduate College, Khariar. Their insights added depth to the discourse on the role of anthropology in addressing public health concerns.
Associate Professor Dr. Rajakishor Mahana delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective efforts that contributed to the seminar’s success.
The event witnessed active participation and collaboration from faculty members, including Dr. Madhulika Sahoo, Dr. Kumud Chandra Naik, Dr. Dhananjay Kumar, and other dignitaries. Additionally, students and researchers played a crucial role in making the seminar an engaging and informative platform.
The successful organization of this seminar underscored the importance of anthropology in understanding and addressing health-related challenges, particularly in tribal communities. The event served as an enriching academic endeavour, reinforcing the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling pressing societal issues.