Two Days National Seminar on Psychology of Food sponsored by ICSSR
Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Department of Home Science and Samrat Ashok Subharti School of Buddhist Studies, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut organized the two-day national seminar on the Psychology of Food: Understanding the Emotional and Psychological Aspects of Eating, held on 5th and 6th December 2023, sponsored by Indian Council of Social Science Research, New Delhi, witnessed a convergence of esteemed scholars, experts, and participants from across India, organized under the able guidance of Dr. Nishma as the Chairperson and Dr. Shalu Nehra as the Organising Secretary, the event proved to be an enlightening exploration of the intricate connections between psychology and our relationship with food. Dr. Heero Hito, the advisor of the event, played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual discourse and proceeding the event with insightful advice and expertise. The seminar was graced by the presence of Most Ven. Sim San, the Abbot of Hongbeoppa Temple in South Korea, was the Chief Guest. Dr. Christie Chain, Director, CIEE, Taipei, Taiwan, and Dr. Rakesh Singh, Director, Antarrashtriya Bodh Shodh Sansthan, Department of Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, were the esteemed Guests of Honor on day one. The program commenced with a soulful Saraswati Vandana, followed by the ceremonial presentation of a planter and Angavastram. The honourable Chancellor Madam shared a thought-provoking presidential note and honourable Vice Chancellor, Mej. Gen. G K Tapliyal, delivered the welcome address, while, honorable CEO Prof. Dr. Shalya Raj extended her best wishes to the organizers, setting a positive tone for the event. Day one featured a captivating keynote address by Dr. Jyoti Gaur from Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, offering profound insights into the psychological dimensions of our eating habits. Dr. Shabnam Chhabra from VMLG Girls PG College and Dr. Snigdha Mishra, a Clinical Psychologist, enriched the seminar with their expertise as speakers. Day two continued the intellectual discourse with presentations from Dr. Kavita Kanna, Dr. Bhawana Gandhi, Dr. Jasbir Chalwla, Dr. Ved Mani, and Dr. Sunayan Sharma. Their diverse perspectives contributed to a holistic understanding of the psychological aspects of food consumption. A poignant moment unfolded when Dr. Jabir Chawala sponsored a gold medal for the M.Sc. Program in memory of his beloved daughter, the late Major Divjot Kaur. Most Ven. Sim San was honored with the prestigious Global Mentor Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the field. The seminar attracted over 200 participants, bringing together minds from various corners of the country. More than 30 individuals presented papers and posters, showcasing the depth and breadth of research online and offline. Dr. Nishma Singh, the organizing chairperson, outlined the seminar’s vision, emphasizing the importance of understanding the intricate relationship between psychology and our dietary choices. A heartfelt vote of thanks was extended by the Organizing Secretary, Dr. Shalu Nehra, she expressed gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and contributors. The successful execution of the two-day seminar was made possible with the dedicated support of Assistant Professors Dr. Neetu Yadav, Ms. Virender Pal Kuar, Ms. Urvashi Sharma, and Ms. Swati Sharma. The program was skilfully hosted by students Ms. Akshita Gupta and Mr. Govind Singh Rana, adding a dynamic and engaging touch to the proceedings.
