Nalanda: An international conference was jointly organized by Nalanda Open University and SAARC Journalists Forum (SJF) recently in Rajgir, a traditional tourist destination in India’s Bihar. The two-day event, titled ‘International Conference on International Mother Language and International Award-2026,’ was held on January 4 and 5 at the International Conference Hall of Nalanda Open University.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the conference was inaugurated by former Governor of Sikkim Shri Ganga Prasad and saw participation from former Vice-Chancellor of Nalanda University Professor K. C. Sinha and eminent writer and cultural activist of Mauritius, Dr. Sarita Budhu, as chief guests. The event also hosted special guests like President of the Central Committee of SAARC Journalists Forum Raju Lama and Secretary General Md. Abdur Rahman.
Representatives from five South Asian countries, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, as well as participants from Thailand, America, and Mauritius, attended the conference. Approximately two hundred prominent journalists, academicians, human rights activists, and cultural figures were present. The first session focused on “Journalism and Human Rights: A Global Challenge,” with Sri Lanka’s Rahul Samantha joining via video conference.
The second session featured discussions on the “Educational Importance of Nalanda University,” led by renowned writer Professor Pratiyo Das and others. In the third session, Professor K. C. Sinha discussed the “Culture and Mother Tongue of Bihar.” The conference primarily exchanged experiences and insights on the global importance of mother tongues, human rights protection, democracy, and press freedom.
The second session was presided over by Dr. Shashi Bhushan Kumar, President of SAARC Journalists Forum Bihar Chapter, and was specially supported by ‘News Human Rights Media House.’ Discussions covered topics like peace, stability, the significance of mother tongues, human rights, and press freedom in South Asia’s geopolitical context.
The conference highlighted the role of SAARC in promoting peace, stability, and mutual cooperation in South Asia. Regional peace efforts have been hindered by political and bilateral issues, but the conference emphasized creating a strong foundation for harmony among the eight South Asian countries.
The discussions also delved into the significance of the 1952 Bangladesh language movement, which has become a global symbol with the International Mother Language Day. The role of journalists in challenging contexts regarding human rights and press freedom was a key topic. Emphasis was placed on ensuring journalists’ safety, overcoming freedom of expression barriers, and reinforcing the media as the ‘fourth pillar’ of human rights protection.
A special cultural program featuring SAARC artists concluded the event. Distinguished individuals were honored for their exceptional contributions in various fields. Dr. Sarita Budhu, Padma Shri Dr. J. K. Singh, Dr. Brajanandan Kumar Sinha, and Dr. Sushmita Pandey received the Life Time Award 2025. The Nalanda International Achievers Award was presented to 21 distinguished personalities, including four journalists from Bangladesh. The Bihar Gaurab Award recognized 51 individuals, including ‘Gold Man of India’ Prem Singh.
On the event’s second day, representatives from SAARC countries visited the ancient ruins of Nalanda University. Five senior journalists from Bangladesh participated in the conference, including Mustaq Ahmed Mubaraki, Editor of Dainik Bangabani and former Director of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Mohammad Moniruzzaman, Editor of Dainik Bank Bima Economise, and Kazi Habib Ullah, Chief Reporter of The Morning News.