40th Indian Social Science Congress held in Mysuru
Mysuru: The Fortieth Indian Social Science Congress was hosted jointly by Indian Academy of Social Sciences and University of Mysore as part of the Centenary Celebrations. The magnum opus was inaugurated by Dr Richard Smith, the UK, a scientist of world repute recently at The Senate Hall, University of Mysore, Mysuru. Padmabhushan Dr B.M.Hegde, President, Indian Social Science Congress delivered the keynote address. Dr Ranganath, Vice-Chancellor, University of Mysore, introduced the guests and spoke about the Centenary activities and welcomed the august gathering. Professor Assadi thanked the organizing faculty for the huge effort.
There were papers presented by over hundred disciplines in various venues spread in the picturesque University campus, during the 5-day conference. Dr Prabha Adhikari, Chairperson, Scientific Committee, organized paper presentations from various professionals. Dr.Jochen Becker, CEO, MediAcion, Germany conducted a session incorporating Psycho Drama enabling doctors to perceive the patients better, using role play. Dr Cordula Dietrich, Psychiatrist and Music Therapist used Body Tambura to demonstrate its soothing effect on terminally ill patients.
Er. Jerardin D’Souza, Founder, MAA-Mangalore Alzheimer’s Association presented a paper on Mangalore Alzheimer’s Association -Conception-Growth and Way Forward. He narrated the story behind the formation and the need for such an organization. The need for special facilities, building and training of caregivers. The need for funding from the government like it is done in Kerala. The interaction with professionals from various fields like Dr.Soumya Hegde, Dr Radha Murthy from Nightingales, Bangalore was productive.
Dr.Jacob Roy, Hon.Vice President, Alzheimer’s Disease International presented the Kerala Model and described the way the government is supporting the Alzheimer’s cause. He appealed to Dr Prabha and Jerardin D’Souza to start a chapter of ARDSI in Mangaluru. Dr.Gayathri Bhat, Dr.Asha Shetty, Dr Soumya Hegde, Dr Radha Murthy, Dr.Sydney D’Souza, Dr Nirgude , Dr.Pracheth, Mr Mohanraj, Ms.Sushmitha, Ms.Yanayeth, Ms.Ranjitha, Ms.Shaiya Binte, Ms.Charitha, and many others presented various papers which Dr Prabha Adhikari evaluated and provided inputs.
The whole program was a landmark in integrating the various disciplines and the Focal Theme – People’s Health and quality of life in India was well represented. A strong positive message went out from this five days interactive congress.