National Seminar on Breaking Barriers: Paradigm Shift in Socio-Political and Cultural Discourse of Northeast India
Date: 5th- 6th June 2025
Venue: Aijal Club, Khatla, Aizawl
CONCEPT NOTE
Following Foucault’s work, the notion of discourse constitutes an academic field of its own. Discourse describes social system of thought and knowledge, that shapes how we, within a particular social group perceive, interpret, and communicate about people, things and society, and their relationships. Typically, emerging out of social institutions like media, education, law, medicine, and politics among others, discourse constructs one’s capacity to think and know at any point in time. In this sense, discourse does not merely reflect social realities, it actively constructs them. Discourse is also seen as embedded in relations of power since those who are in charge of social institutions can control and influence its formation. As such, it reinforces or challenges the existing power structure, with dominant groups controlling the primary narratives while others are marginalized and undermined. This indicates that discourse is constantly changing and evolving in response to socio-economic, political, and technological changes, allowing new arenas for multiplicity of voices and perspectives. Thus, analysing the production and reproduction of discourse is crucial for understanding how society functions and changes.
Seen in this light, it can be argued that the landscape of Northeast India which is undergoing rapid transformation, induced by globalization, changing socio-economic trends and shifting political landscapes has given rise to new challenges and issues, thereby, creating avenues for scholars to engage in critical inquiry, dialogue and perspective about the region and its communities. It is essential to examine the power structures, social and cultural dynamics, and competing interests that impact the emergence of new practices, perspectives and visions to gain a deeper understanding of the complex nature of the region.
It is within this context that the Seminar seeks to explore the multifaceted dimensions of the contemporary society in Northeast India. Mizoram Christian College invites scholars, researchers, and practitioners, to examine and locate this ‘paradigm shift’ in ways people understand themselves and their surroundings, and contribute to a critical discourse surrounding the region. We encourage interdisciplinary approaches and welcome submissions/papers from diverse backgrounds, that delve into a wide range of themes and areas, including but not limited to:
Political and Legal Discourse
Globalization and Culture
Border, Migration and Refugee Crises
Identity and Belonging
Literature, Language, and Oral Narratives
Film, Theatre, and Performative Arts
Postcolonial and Decolonial Discourse
Conflict and Peace Narratives
Gender and Sexuality
State and Religion
Education System and Pedagogy
Business Management, Entrepreneurship and Skill Development
Tourism and Hospitality Management
Sustainable and Inclusive Development
Environment and Ecological Issues
Psychology and Mental Health
Journalism, Mass Media, Artificial Intelligence
Cuisines, Couture, Textile, and Architecture
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Abstract : 350-500 words (approx.), 4 keywords (approx..)
Full Papers : 3000-5000 words (excluding reference)
Format : APA or MLA style, Font- Times New Roman (Size 12), 1.5 line spacing, Alignment- Justified
Co- authored papers will be accepted with separate registration for each author.
Submissions accepted for the seminar will be considered for further publication
Out - stationed participants are required to make their own travel and lodging arrangements to and from Aizawl.
Registration fee is inclusive of admission into seminar, seminar kit, lunch and tea.
All submissions should be in electronic format (Word document or PDF).
Email: mccseminar2025@gmail.com
IMPORTANT DATES
Deadline for Abstract Submission : 14th April, 2025
Notification of acceptance : 17th April, 2025
Full paper submission : 17th May, 2025
REGISTRATION DETAILS
Research scholar : ₹300
Professional/Faculty : ₹500
Registration fees must be paid only after notification of abstract acceptance.
FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT:
Phone No.: 9642609512 (Dr. Hannah Lalhlanpuii)
E-mail : mccseminar2025@gmail.com