SHIMA, June 29 : Recognising the critical role of cultural depth and historical continuity in national security, especially in the sensitive Himalayan frontier, the Indian Army’s Central Command organised a one-day seminar titled “Interwoven Roots: Shared Indo-Tibetan Heritage” here.
The initiative stemmed from a growing strategic consensus that India and Tibet share far more than a boundary – their civilisational bond encompasses spiritual traditions, cultural affinity and ancient trade linkages, all of which bear relevance to contemporary border management and regional stability.
The seminar yesterday served as a unique platform to bridge defence strategy with cultural scholarship. It brought together military leaders, scholars and strategic thinkers to explore how historical insight and community engagement can strengthen India’s approach to border security.
Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Command, delivered the keynote address, underlining the importance of cultural diplomacy in national strategy and the Army’s dedication to preserving both territorial and civilisational integrity.
The seminar featured two thematic sessions. The first explored Indo-Tibetan civilisational linkages. Claude Arpi traced historical and cultural ties between Northern India and Western Tibet; Dr Shashibala highlighted shared Buddhist traditions; and Dr Aparna Negi discussed traditional trade routes like Shipki La and their modern-day significance.
The second session, moderated by Maj Gen G Jaishankar (Retd), focused on strategic concerns including China’s grey-zone tactics, India’s border doctrine, and psychological warfare. Eminent panellists included Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd), Dr Amrita Jash, Dr Dattesh Parulekar, Antara Ghosal Singh, and Ambassador Ashok K Kantha.
Ahead of the seminar, participants visited forward areas including Pooh, Nako, Sumdo, Tabo and Kaza from June 24 27, gaining direct exposure to the region’s socio-cultural landscape and strategic value.
In his closing remarks, Lt Gen D G Misra, GOC, Uttar Bharat Area, stressed the importance of fusing cultural continuity with strategic foresight. He commended the speakers and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to fostering civil-military-academic synergy to defend the nation through both strength and understanding. (UNI)
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