Why in the News?

The persistence of outdated frameworks in the conduct of scientific meetings in India is affecting its scientific practice.

Context:

• There is a need to revamp the traditional mode of scientific conferences in India to align with contemporary values of egalitarianism, diversity, inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability. 
• By modernizing these conferences, India can enhance its position in the global science and technology research ecosystem. 
• The article emphasizes ‘‘No Garland Neuroscience’ that science in India should reflect and promote these values in its practice and dissemination to support broader societal conversations.

How are the present scientific meetings held in India?

• The Core groups of organizers are responsible for planning, inviting experts, disseminating info, and fundraising. It includes invited speakers and paid attendees sharing the latest research discoveries.
• Scientific meetings, or conferences, are where researchers with similar or aligned areas of interest gather and serve as important avenues for the discussion and dissemination of science.
• These meetings often include presentations or talks on contemporary research findings, along with expert interactions on topics of science and professional development. 

Challenges associated with the Traditional ‘bouquet giving’ model:

• Persistent outdated practices:

• • • Persistent outdated practices perpetuate long-standing academic challenges and career-stage inequities.
    • For example, continued reliance on bureaucratic, hierarchical frameworks, prolonged opening speeches by science administrators, delayed commencement due to dignitary arrivals, and hierarchical seating arrangements.

• Ignoring gender and diversity issues:

• • Inclusivity: Lack of gender and diversity awareness evidence lines up for the limited acknowledgment of wider diversity issues.
  • For example, all-male speakers or panelists and sessions such as ‘Women in Science’ completely fail to account for larger diversity issues in science, such as historically marginalized groups and LGBTQIA+ scientists.
  • Scientific ecosystem:  In light of demands for secular scientific practice, gender, and social inclusivity, it is essential to reassess the practices like – religiously symbolic conference materials (like lamp lightening) or devotional songs during inaugurations, and gifting rituals in the Indian context.

How ‘No Garland Neuroscience’ (NGN) model can be significant for Indian scientists? 

• • Can counter the Traditional Framework: The contemporary implementation of NGN can counterbalance the long-standing issue of outdated frameworks in the conduct of the majority of scientific meetings in India. 
    • The conduct of scientific meetings can make planning and budgetary room for improved practices such as hybrid and multi-hub conference formats.

• Can Revamp the Ecosystem: Outdated practices fuel inequities and overlook diversity challenges. Hybrid conference formats, code of ethics, diversity inclusion, care caregiver support can propose towards new scientific ecosystem in India.

• To enhance India’s position in the global science ecosystem a more equitable and progressive scientific community can be built using the capability of NGN model.

Conclusion: Revamping scientific conferences in India to align with modern values of inclusivity, diversity, and sustainability is crucial for fostering a more equitable and progressive scientific community. Embracing these changes can not only address current challenges but also position India as a leading player in the international science and technology research landscape.

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