Indigenous Knowledge Systems Key To Addressing Climate Change: Chhattisgarh Tribal Affairs Minister At HNLU Conference
Law School Correspondent
1 April 2026 5:05 PM IST
Addressing a two-day online international conference on “Law, Rights, and Indigenous Futures: Rethinking Tribal Justice in a Globalized World”, organised by Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Shri Ram Vichar Netam, Minister of Tribal Affairs, Chhattisgarh, emphasised the importance of recognising indigenous communities as active contributors to sustainable development. He highlighted the need for inclusive policies rooted in constitutional values of justice, equality, and dignity, and underscored the role of indigenous knowledge systems in addressing challenges such as climate change and social inequality.
The inaugural session featured opening remarks by Prof. (Dr.) V. C. Vivekanandan, Vice-Chancellor, HNLU, who highlighted the importance of tribal justice in contemporary legal discourse. He emphasised the ethical dimension of indigenous systems that align with nature and cautioned against the consequences of the “mastery of nature” model of development. He noted the need for concrete policy action beyond academic discussion.
The conference was organised by the Centre for Study of Law and Indigenous People under the leadership of Dr. Ayan Hazra, Head of the Centre. Dr. Deepak Srivastav, Registrar In-charge, welcomed the dignitaries and participants, while Mr. Aashutosh Kumar Ahire served as the Convenor of the conference.
The conference brought together academicians, policymakers, legal practitioners, researchers, and students from across India and abroad. Technical sessions covered themes including:
Indigenous rights and constitutional frameworks
Culture, identity, and legal pluralism
Climate justice and environmental sustainability
Development, displacement, and globalization
Gender and indigenous communities
The valedictory session, held on March 29, was graced by Shri Sonmoni Borah, Principal Secretary, Department of Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste, Backward Classes & Minorities Development, Government of Chhattisgarh, as Chief Guest. He highlighted the role of governance, policy implementation, and institutional collaboration in ensuring justice and empowerment for indigenous communities. Dr. Avinash Samal, Director, School of Law & Humanities, delivered the vote of thanks.
The conference concluded with appreciation to all dignitaries, participants, and organisers, reinforcing the need for continued engagement between law, society, and indigenous knowledge systems to build inclusive and sustainable futures.