PLANNER 2024 Inaugurated in RGU
- Date : 19th September, 2024 :: Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal -

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PLANNER 2024 Inaugurated in RGU

The three-day seminar on "Promotion of Library Automation and Networking in North-Eastern Region (PLANNER) 2024" was inaugurated at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, on 19th September 2024.

It is being organized by the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET) Centre in collaboration with Central Library, Rajiv Gandhi University, fostering debate, dialogue, discussion on various relevant issues related to the future of libraries in the north east region.

The seminar began with an opening remark presented by Dr. Sudhir Kumar K Jena, Librarian, Central Library, RGU and Organizer Secretary of PLANNER at the outset of the programme. He wholeheartedly welcomed each and everyone present in the event and outlined the underlying objectives of PLANNER 2024.

Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd), graced the occasion as the chief guest and congratulated RGU for hosting the maiden PLANNER in the state. In his address, Governor Parnaik emphasized the pivotal role of libraries in the dissemination of knowledge, stressing the significance of libraries in ensuring the credibility and validity of research.

Moreover, he focused upon the contribution of Vedas and epics in the Indian knowledge system. He further elaborated on how knowledge can be harnessed for governance, and governance should drive nation-building. He also shared his views on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Prof. Devika Madalli, Director of INFLIBNET, UGC-IUC, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of collaboration between institutions. She appreciated the friendly and productive interactions with RGU’s Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Saket Kushwaha. Dr. Dhananjay Kumar Pandey, Joint Organizing Secretary-PLANNER 2024 warmly welcomed participants and INFLIBNET team members on visit to organise the event at RGU. Prof. A. R. D. Prasad, a notable academician in the field of Library and Information Science delivered an insightful keynote speech during the inaugural session.

Prof. Kushwaha, in his address, stressed the importance of libraries for students, scholars, and communities in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting how they contribute to the holistic development of the region.

Further he stressed on the role of books and knowledge that they have potential to bring about a great change in the society. Dr. Nabam TakamT Rikam, Registrar-RGU discussed the evolving role of libraries in light of technological advancements, particularly Artificial Intelligence. He emphasized that libraries are not just repositories of books but are evolving as dynamic institutions that integrate AI to support diverse academic and research needs.

Dr. H.G. Hosamani, Convenor-PLANNER 2024 delivered a formal vote of thanks to each and every stakeholder of the programme at the end of the inaugural session of the programme. The PLANNER is a biennial convention with a special focus to promote automation and networking in academic libraries across the North-Eastern Region. The event is organized by INFLIBNET Centre in association with the universities located in North-East India.