The 29th International and 60th National Conference of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology (IAAP) commenced at Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, under the theme “Applied Psychology: Promoting Social Harmony and Wellbeing”.
The three-day conference, running from February 26 to 28, brought together over 300 participants from across the country, including international delegates, and featured multiple scientific sessions, poster presentations, workshops, and symposiums.
The inaugural programme, held on February 26, was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University, Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Patnaik underscored the significance of the conference theme, particularly in the context of the Northeastern states of India.
He remarked that such platforms help dispel misconceptions about safety and perceived dangers associated with Nagaland, presenting the state in its true and peaceful light.
Pro Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, Prof. G.T. Thong, also addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of psychology as an academic discipline and its practical applications for societal betterment.
He highlighted the role of psychology in fostering social harmony and wellbeing, aligning with the conference’s core theme. IAAP president, Prof. M.V.R. Raju, provided an overview of the conference and its objectives, elaborating on the relevance of applied psychology in contemporary society. As part of the event, editor of the Journal of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology (JIAAP), Prof. Panch Ramalingam, released the book of abstracts along with other scholarly articles.
The inaugural session began with a welcome address by Prof. Thiyam Kiran Singh, HoD of Psychology, Nagaland University. Dr. Lovika P. Shikhu, Assistant Professor from the same department, chaired the programme, while the vote of thanks was delivered by assistant professor, Department of Psychology, Dr. Imlisongla Longkumer.
The conference fostered meaningful discussions and collaborations among scholars, researchers, and practitioners, with a focus on promoting social harmony and collective wellbeing through the lens of applied psychology.