Srinagar, June 21, 2026: The Srinagar–Nalanda Dialogue 2026 concluded at SKICC, Srinagar with the adoption of the Srinagar–Nalanda Declaration. The declaration stressed the importance of dialogue, knowledge sharing, cultural exchange and sustainable development to address modern-day challenges.

The concluding session brought together scholars, policymakers and cultural leaders from India and abroad. The event was attended by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Karan Singh, MP and author Dr. Shashi Tharoor, former IAS officer Nitishwar Kumar, University of Kashmir Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, Festival Chairperson D. Aaliya, Festival Director Ganga Kumar, Dr. K. Mahesh and international adviser Dr. Vic Gaffney.

In his keynote address, Dr. Shashi Tharoor described Srinagar and Nalanda as two great centres of learning and exchange of ideas. He said dialogue is essential for the growth of knowledge and societies become stronger when ideas and cultures interact freely. He also highlighted Kashmir’s historic contribution to global knowledge traditions.

Presiding over the session, Dr. Karan Singh spoke about the 2,000-year-old intellectual ties between Kashmir and Nalanda. He described Kashmir as the “northern intellectual counterpart of Nalanda” and urged young people to see Yoga as a complete philosophy of life rather than only a physical exercise.

Prof. Nilofer Khan underlined Kashmir’s rich tradition of philosophy and literature, while Nitishwar Kumar stressed the importance of dialogue in preserving India’s civilizational heritage.

The Srinagar–Nalanda Declaration called for greater cooperation between educational institutions, policymakers and cultural organisations to strengthen knowledge-based governance, preserve heritage and promote sustainable tourism. Delegates also emphasised the need to balance development with conservation so that Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural and environmental heritage remains protected for future generations.