About Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)

Founded in 1936 as the Sir Dorabji Tata Graduate School of Social Work and later renamed as the Tata Institute of Social Sciences in 1944, TISS has emerged as a beacon of excellence in higher education. In 1964, the institute achieved the prestigious status of being declared Deemed to be a University under Section 3 of the University Grants Commission Act (UGC), 1956. TISS holds the esteemed accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with an impressive score of 3.89/4, reflecting the institute's commitment to academic excellence and quality. In addition to its national acclaim, TISS has earned global recognition. As of the QS World University Rankings 2024, TISS has secured a noteworthy position in the bandwidth of 251-300 Rank by subject. This acknowledgment underscores the institute's international standing and its dedication to fostering world-class education.

In 1987, TISS expanded its reach by establishing a rural campus at Tuljapur in Dharashiv District of Maharashtra. This campus plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable and equitable socio-economic development within rural communities. With a dedication to exploring alternative development strategies, TISS Tuljapur strives to contribute significantly to the revival of rural economies, societies, and polities. TISS Tuljapur campus stands out as an ideal location for grounded rural fieldwork. Nestled in the heart of rural India, the campus provides an immersive environment for students and researchers to engage directly with the challenges and opportunities of rural life. Its strategic location ensures proximity to diverse rural communities, offering unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning and research.

The theme is ‘Reimagining Future of Rural Development: Contemporary Challenges and New Pathways’ for our upcoming conference. Join us in exploring and understanding the diverse facets of contemporary rural life through the lens of TISS's rich academic legacy and the transformative work happening at the Tuljapur Campus.

About the Conference

In the post neo-liberal phase, the rural society in India has witnessed many changes, and faced many challenges. The market has penetrated more into the rural economy. Globalization has influenced rural life more profoundly than ever before. Rural social inequality has increased more, and so also distress in the economy. Environmental changes have become more pronounced as they affect the climate and the agricultural economy. The water crisis looms large. Privatization has made health and education less affordable. At the same time, cities provide opportunities for the rural youth who also aspire to a new way of living, thanks to the influence of the media. In short, rural society faces many challenges; and it is imperative for the state and the civil society to find effective ways to deal with these developmental issues.

With this background, the Two-Day National Conference on Rural Development is initiated by the School of Rural Development, Tata Institute of Social Science, Tuljapur. The conference aims to provide a platform for academicians, researchers, practitioners, industry professionals and young scholars to discuss the latest issues in the field of rural development. The event will provide networking opportunities in various areas of rural development and foster interdisciplinary collaboration and academic growth. The conference seeks to broaden our understanding of diverse aspects such as, agriculture, health, social inequality, women empowerment, sustainability, rural economy & livelihood, government schemes for rural India etc.

Honorable Patrons

Prof. Manoj Kumar Tiwari

Vice-Chancellor, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)

Prof. Shankar Das

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS),

Theme of the Conference

Reimagining Future of Rural Development: Contemporary Challenges and New Pathways

Sub-themes (The list is not exhaustive):

1. State, Market and Agricultural Crises

2. Environmental Sustainability, Agriculture and Livelihood

3. Water Crises Management in Rural Areas

4. Migration and Rural Society

5. Governance, Policy, and Strengthening Rural Institutions

6. Rural Entrepreneurship

7. Rural Technology and Innovation

8. Microfinance and Rural Economy

9. Education in Rural Areas

10. Strengthening Rural Health Systems

11. Rural Youth and Aspiration

12. New Media and Rural Transformation

13. Gender and Rural Development

14. Caste/Community Dimensions in Rural Development

Chief Guest

Mr. Jaykumar Gore

Hon. Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department of Maharashtra.

Popatrao Baguji Pawar

Executive Director, Maharashtra Model Village Programme, Padma Shri Awardee, Sarpanch of Hiware Bazar and Pioneer of its Rural Transformation.

Special Guest

Timeline

Last Date for Abstract/summary: January 31st, 2025(Extended)

Acceptance of Abstract/Summary: February 5th, 2025

Date of Registration: February 5th 2025 Onwards

Participants Registration Fees

Outside participants: ₹ 2500

Researchers: ₹ 3000

Faculties/Professionals: ₹ 3500

TISS Students: ₹ 2000

Accommodation will be provided only for the outside participants. The link for online payment of registration fees will be displayed on the website www.tiss.edu after the selection of the abstract/summary.

Dr. Hena Khatun,

Conference Convener

Assistant Professor

School of Rural Development

Tata Institute of Social Sciences

Tuljapur Campus

Prof. Bal Nagorao Rakshase

Campus Director,

School of Rural Development

Tata Institute of Social Sciences

Tuljapur Campus