DETAILS OF SOME SPECIAL SESSIONS

1.The importance of Ujjain as the Meridian of the World.
Preamble : Ancient Indian astronomical texts are deeply rooted in calculations made using the meridian of Ujjain as the primary reference. Consequently, Ujjain became the natural reference point for the calculation of time or Kala Ganana. In the present era, the calculation of time is commonly referenced to the Greenwich Prime Meridian. However, this is largely a result of Western influence and colonization rather than scientific necessity. This session will discuss the historical, scientific and philosophical justification for aligning the Prime Meridian with Ujjain.

2.Kaala Chakra: Involution and Evolution of civilization in time and space :
Kala Chakra, the Wheel of Time, is a profound Indic framework for understanding the involution and evolution of civilization across time and space, integrating cosmology, consciousness, ethics and social order into a single cyclic vision. Unlike linear historical models that assume perpetual progress or inevitable decline, the Kala Chakra conceives time as rhythmic, recursive, and multi-layered, operating simultaneously at cosmic (brahmanda), terrestrial (bhumandala), and human (jiva) scales. In this view, involution is not degeneration but a withdrawal of manifest complexity into subtler principles—knowledge becoming ritual, wisdom condensing into symbols and lived dharma crystallizing into tradition. Conversely, evolution is the re-unfolding of these latent principles into new cultural, technological, and ethical forms, responsive to changing spatial and material conditions. Civilizations thus rise, stabilize, fragment and re-integrate in accordance with shifts in collective consciousness (citta), moral orientation (dharma) and ecological balance, rather than purely economic or technological drivers. The Kala Chakra also situates human history within a cosmic ecology, where astronomical cycles, geographic space and societal organization codetermine civilizational possibilities. Crucially, this model allows for renewal without erasure knowledge lost at one phase re-emerges transformed in another enabling continuity across apparent ruptures. In contemporary terms, the Kala Chakra offers a powerful counterpoint to linear modernity—suggesting that sustainable futures arise not from unchecked acceleration, but from attunement to cyclical time, spatial limits and the ethical maturation of consciousness.

3.Varahamihira Observatory Dongla - International Astronomical Research Centre:
Separate session on the potential of Dongla observatory to be established as an International Centre in Astronomy and Astrophysics research and innovation. Discussions on the current status and uniqueness of the observatory and accessibility to school and college students of M.P. and neighbouring states.

4.The Present and Future of Astronomy and Space Research in India:
Separate sessions on ground-based mega science projects and space based ISRO roadmap for current and future directions in astronomy and planetary science Ongoing Ground-Based Mega Science Projects- SKA, TMT, LIGO etc Roadmap for future and frontiers of space research in Astronomy and planetary science Plenary and invited speakers from eminent institutes of India and Abroad along with ISRO participation.

5.Space Economy for Vikasit Bharat: Space Technologies in the service of the Nation: Reinvigorating Prof. Dhawan’s vision for next century Preamble : ISRO and private entities will showcase the current landscape of space technology in India and outline the roadmap ahead, including milestones such as the Bharatiya Space Station (by 2035) and an Indian human landing on the Moon (by 2047). Special emphasis will be placed on domains particularly relevant to the state of Madhya Pradesh. With a growing number of space startups based in the state, their participation will enrich the discussions and make the session more impactful and meaningful.