SAARC Journalists Forum Conference Begins Today at Nalanda University, India

A two-day international conference organised by the SAARC Journalists Forum will commence today (January 4) at Nalanda University, Bihar, bringing together journalists, scholars, writers, and cultural representatives from across South Asia and beyond.

The conference, scheduled for January 4–5, 2026, is being held under the joint auspices of the SAARC Journalists Forum – India Chapter (Bihar), Nalanda Open University, and Human Rights Today.

According to Dr. Shashi Bhushan Kumar, President of the SAARC Journalists Forum India Chapter Bihar, the Chief Guest of the event will be Honourable Ganga Prasad, Governor of Bihar and former Governor of Sikkim.

Distinguished international guests include Dr. Sarita Buddhu, International Cultural Ambassador and wife of former Deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius Harish Buddhu; Raju Lama, International President of the SAARC Journalists Forum from Nepal; Md Abdur Rahman, International Secretary General from Bangladesh; and Dr. P.C. Chandra from Thailand.

The conference is expected to host around three dozen international delegates, along with several Padma Shri awardees, journalists, writers, academicians, and research scholars. Nearly 200 delegates from various Indian states are also set to participate, including renowned national news anchor Chitra Tripathi.

The first day of the conference will focus on the importance of mother tongues, with multiple sessions dedicated to linguistic and cultural preservation. An open session will allow journalists, poets, and literary figures to present poems and reflections in their native languages.

The day will conclude with a cultural programme showcasing traditional folk songs and dances.

On the second day, participants will be taken on a guided tour of the historic ruins of Nalanda University, highlighting the site’s ancient academic legacy and architectural grandeur.