Rabindranath Tagore Memorial Lecture Successfully Held with Grandeur at IIAS Shimla
The 10th Rabindranath Tagore Memorial Lecture was successfully organized on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the esteemed Library Hall of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla. This significant event, an annual highlight at IIAS, witnessed enthusiastic participation from scholars, researchers, academicians, administrators, and distinguished community members.
Dr. Vinay Prabhakar Sahasrabuddhe, former President of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), New Delhi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered an extensive and insightful lecture on “Political Party Reforms for Effective Democratic Governance.” Dr. Sahasrabuddhe meticulously dissected contemporary democratic practices, highlighting that robust democratic governance significantly relies on the strength, transparency, and ideological clarity of political parties.
In his lecture, he critically evaluated the weakening ideological foundations of contemporary political parties, the prevalent ambiguity in party doctrines, and the commercialization of electoral politics. Dr. Sahasrabuddhe underscored the urgency of implementing structural reforms within political parties, emphasizing internal democracy, control of defections, and comprehensive electoral reforms to uphold and enhance the quality of democratic governance.
Earlier, Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, Director of IIAS, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests. Prof. Shashi Prabha Kumar, Chairperson of IIAS, introduced the Chief Guest and contextualized the significance of the event. Shri Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary of IIAS, expressed sincere gratitude to all participants and organizers for the successful execution of the lecture.
The programme concluded with the National Anthem followed by high tea, providing an informal setting for discussions and interactions among attendees.
