Area Study Centre for South Asia, University of the Punjab, Lahore

The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore in collaboration with the Forum of Diplomats, an initiative of Dr. Jehangir Bader Institute of Vision and Leadership (JBIVL) organized a special program/ One Day Seminar to commemorate SAARC Charter Day, focusing on the relevance of regional cooperation and the evolving challenges faced by South Asia in the 21st century. The Honorable Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Punjab, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The program was presided by the Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah. The event brought together distinguished policymakers, diplomats, academics, and experts to reflect on the 40 years of the SAARC and to discuss pathways for revitalizing regional integration amid contemporary political, economic, and security challenges.

In the opening remarks, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Bader, Founder of JBIVL said that JBVIL organizes this event in commemoration of SAARC Charter Day in collaboration with the CSAS every year. Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director Centre for South Asian Studies in her welcome address highlighted the significance of SAARC as a platform for promoting regional cooperation, peace and shared prosperity in South Asia. Prof. Goraya, in her address noted that South Asia faces complex challenges in the 21st century, including geo-political tensions, climate change, economic disparities, public health crisis, pandemics, digital transformation and cyber governance, energy security and sustainable development, migration, inequality, and human security. She emphasized that academic institutions have a crucial role in encouraging dialogue, research and people-to-people engagement to strengthen regional understanding. Dr. Goraya expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, Malik Muhammad Khan, the Honorable Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, the Vice Chancellor, and the distinguished Guest Speakers for the participation and valuable insights. She reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to promoting informed discourse on South Asian affairs.

The Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan in his address emphasized the importance of policymakers’ cooperation, people-to-people connectivity, and renewed political will for strengthening SAARC. In the keynote address, the Speaker underscored that regional collaboration remains essential for addressing shared challenges such as climate change, poverty, public health, and economic development. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, in the Presidential address, highlighted the role of academic institutions and research centers in promoting regional dialogue, mutual understanding, and evidence-based policymaking in South Asia. The Vice Chancellor appreciated and commended the Director CSAS for successfully organizing the important event at 40th year of SAARC’s Charter and for fostering the informed dialogue on regional issues. Mr. Shahid Malik, former Ambassador of Pakistan to India delivered an insightful address on the historical evolution of SAARC, highlighting the institutional constraints. He stressed the need for pragmatic engagement, confidence-building measures, and functional cooperation in areas of common interest. He emphasized that the Indian role as a stumbling block has hampered SAARC to progress. Mr.Yasin Joyia, the Honorary Consul General for Srilanka focused on economic cooperation, regional trade, and connectivity, advocating for stronger private-sector engagement to unlock South Asia’s vast economic potential.

The program concluded with a consensus that while SAARC faces significant challenges in the current geopolitical environment, its core vision remains relevant. Participants reaffirmed the importance of dialogue, inclusivity, and cooperation to ensure peace, stability, and sustainable development in South Asia.

The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahor in collaboration with Jinnah- Ambedkar Chair organized a one-day seminar on "Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's Influence on Global Human Rights' Thoughts", held on November 17, 2025. This event was organized in rememberance of 69th death anniversary of Baba Sahib Ambedkar, to reflect on the global relevance of his philosophy of equality, dignity, and justice. Mr. Hamood Ur Rehman, Advocate Supreme Court was the Guest Speaker at the occassion. He discussed Ambedkar’s intellectual engagements with democracy, caste abolition, and social morality, and traced their influence on modern international human rights frameworks. His thought-provoking lecture highlighted how Ambedkar’s principles continue to inform global movements for combating discrimination and fostering inclusive governance. The programme also included the interactive discussion that underlined Ambedkar’s continuing significance in shaping both South Asian and global human rights narratives. Participants emphasized the need for renewed academic inquiry into Ambedkarite thought, especially in the context of contemporary struggles for justice and civil liberties worldwide. Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director CSAS said that Dr. Ambedkar's philosphy narrates that no matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world. Shaped by personal experience of discrimination, Ambedkar went for lifelong commitment to build a society that lives with respect amd freedom. Dr. Goraya said that Ambedkar taught that human rights begin with recognizing the inherent dignity and equality of every individual. She emphasized that by upholding human rights in daily life, we carry forward Ambedkar’s vision of a just, compassionate, and truly democratic society. The Director CSAS thanked the Guest Speaker & participants for their valuable contributions and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting critical research and dialogue on human rights and social transformation.

The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore successfully organized a One-Day International Hybrid Conference on “Climate Emergency in Pakistan: Risks, Challenges & Road Ahead”. The event took place on October 22, 2025. The Conference brought together scholars, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across the country and abroad to deliberate on the pressing issue of climate change and its multifaceted impacts, particularly in the context of Pakistan.Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change & Environmental Coordination was the Chief Guest at the occasion. The Keynote Speakers were Ms. Amna Munawwar Awan, President Centre of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR), Islamabad & Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja, Executive Director, Centre for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Muzaffarabad, AJK.
A total of twenty-six scholars presented research papers during the conference who reflected the regional importance of the topic and the need for shared understanding and cooperation. This diverse participation underscored the broad interest in developing effective responses to the climate emergency affecting the region. The event featured keynote addresses, paper presentations, and interactive Panel discussion session.

Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director CSAS, in her welcome address, thanked the esteemed guests. She said that for nearly five decades, the CSAS has upheld a mission defined by interdisciplinary research, regional engagement, and critical scholarship. Dr. Goraya said that South Asia today stands at the center of the global climate crisis being a victim of intensified climate threats. It is imperative that we gather the most credible and informed voices, not only to examine the contours of these risks but to collectively shape the discourse on response options.

She highlighted that in confronting the reality of, warming planet’s rising tides and intensifying fires, the impacts of extreme weather events are already reshaping the economies, societies and ecosystems at an alarming pace. The Director CSAS shared the perspective on the manifestations of systemic weaknesses in political governance and international coordination which have led to the harsh truth of climate crisis today. She highlighted that Pakistan is among the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. And yet, we remain among the least prepared. Dr. Goraya emphasized that at the heart of this challenge is the issue of climate justice. The Global South, despite contributing the least to the historical carbon emissions, bears the greatest burden of climate-induced disasters. This disparity not only deepens injustice, but also impedes collective global action. She accentuated that we are obligated to support a just transition; the one that ensures that the vulnerable countries and communities are not left behind in the transition to sustainability. In her concluding remarks, she emphasized that this crisis is far too vast for governments alone to solve. It requires collective will and coordinated efforts across all sectors

Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, the Chief Guest extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Director CSAS, Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya for organizing this timely & critically important academic conference on the Climate Emergency in Pakistan. She said that Centre, with its interdisciplinary focus and regional scope, is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. The Centre can serve as a platform not only for cutting-edge climate research but also for regional collaboration, which is vital, given the transboundary nature of environmental degradation. She remarked that we are now well beyond the stage of climate change being an abstract or future concern. It is visible, and increasingly violent. Whether it is the unprecedented floods that displaced millions, the melting glaciers Pakistan is on the frontlines of a global emergency. This demands both moral clarity and strategic resolve. The Chief Guest emphasized that students and scholars must have the urge to engage with the climate crisis not merely as a scientific or technical dilemma, but as a fundamentally human challenge. She appreciated the efforts of the Director CSAS to arrange this much-needed conference that shows the relentless commitment on her part to environmental justice in shaping not only intellectual discourse but also the moral direction of our collective response to the climate crisis.

The distinguished keynote Speakers Ms. Amna Munawwar Awan delivered Lecture on “Regional climate Diplomacy”. She argued that Regional Climate Diplomacy has turned the urgency of climate change into an opportunity for the community where collective action becomes the foundation of regional stability and sustainable growth. Ms. Amna also highlighted the key collaboration areas and the Green economy. As case studies, she discussed EU Green Deal, Green BRI & SAARC. She identified the barriers to cooperation and emphasized that nations can transform climate vulnerability into collective strength, turning responsibility into hope for the earth that sustains us all. Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja, the second keynote speaker drew attention to the Conflict-Induced Climate Crisis: A Case Study of Jammu & Kashmir. She said that the climate emergency threatens the contemporary civilization. She referred to the International Humanitarian Laws which prohibit the excessive and disproportionate damage to the environment. Dr. Khawaja highlighted how degraded environment places Kashmiri’s future livelihood, food security, water security, economic security and energy security at risk. She underscored how Indian excessive militarization of IIOJK has destroyed natural habitat on both sides. Dr. Khawaja also suggested measures that climate emergency and methodology should be a part of school curriculum in order to protect environment. And at the same time, the climate literacy needs to be starting from schools to Universities. She urged consideration of climate emergency in IIOJK and that needs to be taken seriously to protect environment.

After the inaugural session, there were parallel sessions for the presenters, chaired by Prof. Dr. Isma Younes, Director, Institute of Geography, University of the Punjab, Dr. Muhammad Siddique Akbar, Assistant Professor, Institute of Social and Cultural Studies, University of the Punjab & Dr. Arfan Mahmood, Assistant Professor, CSAS, respectively.

The Panel discussion was headed by Prof. Dr. Raana Malik, Chairperson Department of Gender Studies, University of the Punjab. The Panelists discussed about Gender and Climate Change. Prof. Dr. Faiza Sharif, Director SDSC, GCU Lahore Dr. Muhammad Younis Zahid, Environmentalist, Climatology & Circular Economy System Expert, Executive Member of PCAN, Dr. Qaisar Khalid Mehmood, Deptt. of Gender Studies, Mr. Uzair, Research Officer, Deptt. of Gender Studies, and Mr. Hassan Bin Saadat, climate Scientist were among the notable Panelists. It was discussed in detail how women have been a victim of these climatic disasters since they are least trained to tackle the crisis. The Panelists advocated for balanced gender role in climate policies. They were of the view that in many parts of the world, particularly in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America, women play key roles in food production, water collection, and household energy use. When droughts, floods, or other disasters occur, these roles become even more difficult. However, they ended on a note that despite facing greater vulnerability, women are not merely victims, they are powerful leaders and innovators in climate action.

These sessions provided a comprehensive overview of the scientific, social, and policy dimensions of climate change. Each presentation was followed by engaging discussions that allowed participants to share insights, experiences, and possible solutions. Throughout the proceedings, a number of important findings and ideas emerged. Scholars and experts emphasized the urgency of addressing climate challenges through regional cooperation, as the environmental issues facing Pakistan are closely linked to those of its neighboring countries. Several innovative adaptation strategies were presented, including the use of climate-smart agriculture, improved water management systems, and community-based resilience models. Policymakers in attendance expressed appreciation for the research contributions and acknowledged the role of academia in informing evidence-based policy formulation. Young researchers from Pakistan were particularly recognized for their insightful presentations and commitment to advancing climate studies.

The discussions led to a set of forward-looking recommendations. Participants agreed on the need to integrate climate resilience into national and regional development planning and to strengthen research collaboration among South Asian universities and research centers. Emphasis was placed on the importance of increasing investment in renewable energy, promoting public awareness about sustainable practices, and developing policies that support the transition to low-carbon economies. It was also recommended that follow-up workshops and publications be organized to sustain the momentum created by this conference and to disseminate key findings more widely.

The conference concluded with a formal closing session in which Dr. Goraya, Director CSAS expressed her appreciation to all presenters and attendees. She brought her address to a close by saying that the climate emergency in Pakistan is a defining issue of our time. It demands nothing less than urgency, innovation, and multi-sectoral collaboration.

In a significant move towards fostering collaboration and advancing shared goals, the Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, & Rehman Legal Solutions (RLS), Lahore signed an MoU, on August, 04, 2025. The Director CSAS, Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, and Mr. Hamood Ur Rehman Awan, Head of RLS signed the MoU. The MoU aimed at promoting joint lectures, workshops, seminars, conferences, research activities and academic publications. Prof. Goraya said that this academic collaboration is a major step stone which will foster the academic linkages not only within South Asia but with the outside world in future. She emphasized that this partnership represents a shared commitment & lays the foundation for a mutually beneficial educational relationship, since RLS is not only the law Firm but a strategic Think Tank. Dr. Goraya stated that his step will leverage the combined expertise and resources to create lasting impact. Mr. Hamood Ur Rehman said that RLS will do whatever it can, in order to provide a successful implementation of this MoU. as it is aimed at strengthening partnership and driving mutual initiatives forward.

Under the directions of the Information & Culture Department, Government of the Punjab, the Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, organized a one Day Seminar on the topic of “Importance of Culture in the Society” on April 14, 2025. Mr. Mughees Bin Azeez, Director (Operations), Punjab Council of Arts, Lahore was the Guest Speaker at the occasion. The Guest Speaker discussed that the culture carries paramount importance for the societies, since it helps a man regulate his code of conduct and prepare him for the upcoming endeavors. He said that the Punjab Government’s initiative for the promotion of culture in general and Punjabi culture in particular is highly commendable. Mr. Mughees also talked about the initiatives of Punjab Council of the Arts, Lahore for the revival and promotion of theatre which was once used to be the center of cultural promotion and entertainment. The Speaker was of the view that Culture plays a vital role in the determination of communication that occurs in the day-to-day life of the members of the society. Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director CSAS thanked the esteemed Guest Speaker and appreciated the Punjab Government’s initiative to celebrate Punjab Culture Day. Dr. Goraya, talking about the importance of this day delved that today our youth has forgotten the essence of our culture and its values. She said that culture gives importance to an individual and this is why it does not stand by itself alone. She emphasized that in this modern age, the cultural sense is much needed for promoting a sense of empathy, harmony and peace, to accept and live with the differences observed in society. The seminar was followed by Q & A. In the end, the cake was cut for the Day's celebration.

In Observance of International Day to combat Islamophobia, the Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, in collaboration with Paigham-E-Pakistan organized a One Day Webinar on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Dr. Muhaimin from the Department of Islamic and Religious Studies at the University of Haripur-KPK, was the Keynote Speaker at the occasion. He delivered lecture on “The Root Causes of Islamophobia: Analysis & Remedies”. The Guest Speaker said that Islamophobia is a kind of fear & prejudice that leads to provocation and intolerence towards Muslims, both online & offline. He highlighted the concept of Orientalism and explained how the threat of Islamophobia eventually led to the foundation of cultural fault- lines on a global scale. Dr. Muhaimin emphasized that we as Muslims have forgotten our role to counter this threat. He was of the view that unless the social media is used for positive purposes, unless we start caring the basic human rights and unless we initiate embracing others, nothing concrete will work. We as individuals need to contribute in bringing people and societies together. The Guest Speaker gave references from Quran, Sunnah, Ahadith & Allama Iqbal' s poetry. Dr. Muhaimin highlighted that the threat of Islamophobia has developed as an intricate phenomenon that needs to be understood from the outlook where West stands in contrast with the East. Therefore, it is very much pertinent to comprehend and analyse who is responsible for widening the gap between West and East? He said that this fact is the tragic reality the we have forgotten the teachings of Islam and that necessitates to be comprehended in its true letter and spirit. He was of the view that as Muslims, it is our responsibility to remove the trust defecit between West and East. Dr. Muhaimin appreciated the Director CSAS, Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, to arrange Webinar on this imporatnt day. In the end, Dr. Goraya said that the intolerence against a certain religion was accentuated with the rise of Muslim immigartion in multi-cultural societies. However, Islamophobia has thus been both slackly defined and largely applied . The Director CSAS emphasized that faith-base radicalization needs to be shunned. She said that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) was the first Peace Builder and Peace Educator. His life & teachings are the guiding principles for building a peaceful society. The Webinar was followed by Q & A.

In Commemoration of Kashmir solidarity day, The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, organized a One-Day Seminar on February 3, 2025. The tooic of the seminar was "A Reflection on the Historical Roots of the Kashmir Conflict: Implications for Gilgit-Baltistan". Dr. Mir Waheed Akhlaq, Assistant Professor from Deptt. of Political Science at Karakoram International University, Gilgit was the Guest Speaker at the occasion.The speaker delved into the historical roots of Kashmir issue which are linked to colonial era and Britain's imperialistic policies. He said that the Treaty of Lahore and the Treaty of Amritsar are glaring examples in the context of Kashmir issue that show how imperiastic ambitions of the biritish colonisers aggravated the geo political situation in the Sub-Continent. Dr. Waheed emphasized that Gilgit Baltistan in the context of Kashmir has a mixed development trajectory. In terms of the political empowerment, the situation is gradually improving while in terms of economy the region still needs a lot of effort. He was of the view that an apt understanding and serious engagement with the history of the country, region, and colonial period is very much important to grasp the issues being faced by our country. Religious extremism in India, the rise of Hindutva and spread of narratives rooted in such movements is a serious threat which needs to be countered by the academia and especially the young researchers of Pakistan’s Universities. The seminar ended with the note that Pakistan, as well as the people with conscience, have and will always stand with Kashmiri brothers and sisters by extending all political, diplomatic and moral support to their just and legitimate cause of self-determination.

The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab Lahore, in collaboration with Center of Pakistan & International Relations (COPAIR), Islamabad organized a Webinar on "Pak-US Relations & Future of Economic Stability", on January 14, 2025. Mr. Faheem Sardar, Senior Policy Specialist at Strategic Policy Planning Cell, National Security Division, Government of Pakistan was the Keynote Speaker. Mr. Faheem said that Pak-US relationship has a long history. He started the discussion by stressing on Geo-politics, terrorism & economy. He spoke about 4 Countries and One region particularly. The Speaker explained that 1) China is the economic Superpower of contemporary times and one cannot overlook China when it comes to economic debate. 2) India and the US have strong strategic alliances. Since 1980’s, the US had been supporting India as the latter wanted to contain China and Pakistan. 3) Talking about Afghanistan, the Speaker said that owing to the presence of Daesh and ISIS, the region is again facing the menace of terrorism that might lead to any confrontation. He was of the view that rather than fighting an Idea, there is a need to adopt a strategic operational idea. 4) Mr. Faheem said that Bangladesh and Pakistan share the same history. In the Post-Hasina scenario, Bangladesh has slightly shown a harder stance which is favourable for Pakistan and China. He also talked about the African Region where Pakistan has been actively focusing for the last three years.

The Speaker said that the US is the largest export destination of Pakistan, which is the 5th most populated country in the world. He suggested key points for the future economic stability of Pakistan which can be critical for the country, i-e; Specific Objective Setting, Policy Stability & Stable Policy Structure, Export-Oriented Trade and moving away from dependency, Institute our minds to reduce dependency on loans by Superpowers, Focusing away from traditional market and export. Mr. Faheem said that the Country needs to contact the US Chamber of Business & Commerce in order to increase the export capacity. The session was followed by Q & A.

The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore organized a special One Day Seminar for M.Phil & PhD students, on January 9, 2025. The seminar was titled, "Focusing Quantitative Research: Initiation to completion". Dr. Abdul Jabbar from Deptt. of Political Science, University of the Punjab was the Keynote Speaker at the occasion. The Speaker said that Research is a scholarly and systematic search for relevant knowledge on a specified subject and it is an essential question to know ‘What motivates people to conduct research’? He said that Quantitative Studies can be conducted to observe situations, people, and subjects to gain a better understanding of phenomena. Dr. Abdul Jabbar emphasized that Quantitative Research involves quantifying things and asks questions such as "how long," "how many," and "the degree to which". The Speaker further elaborated that Quantitative Research aims to quantify the data and generalize findings from a sample of a study from varied perspectives. It requires collecting data, analyzing, and interpreting quantifiable data to prove the hypothesis produced in a specific study. The Keynote Speaker also gave a detailed description of the characteristics and methods to be adopted for Quantitative Research (Experimental Research, Co-Relational Designs, Descriptive Research & Case Studies). Towards the end of session, the students were given task to develop the Research Questions and Quantitative Hypothesis.--

In observance of Kashmir Black Day, the Centre for South Asian Study (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore organized an International webinar on October 27, 2024. Ms. Nabeela Ayoub Khan, Member Legislative Assembly, Special Assistant to Government Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs and Human Rights- AJK was the Chief Guest at the occasion. The Guest speakers included Dr. Imran Khan Suddhazai Director of Studies, Centre for Islamic Finance, University of Bolton, UK, Dr. Serena Hussain Associate Professor Centre for Trust, Peace & Social Relations Coventry University UK, Dr. Khurram Abbas Director, India Study Centre, Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad & Advocate Mansoor Kataria, Secretary General PLF Lahore. The Director CSAS, Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya welcomed the esteemed guests. In her welcome address, Prof. Goraya said that the Centre has arranged this International Webinar to commemorate the dark chapter in South Asian History. She stressed that October 27, 2024 serves as a poignant reminder for the International community & those responsible for maintaining global peace. Prof. Goraya also discussed the shortcomings of International Law & systems in preventing and addressing the unlawful occupations and atrocities. She emphasized that India needs to look inward on the way, it is continuing its barbarity within India & Indian held Valley. She said that Pakistan has always supported Kashmiri people and will continue to provide political, diplomatic and moral backing for the rightful & legitimate pursuit of self-determination of Kashmiris.



Dr. Serena shared her views on Abrogation of 370 & 35A: 5 years on- She mentioned about her research where she found difficulties in interviewing people who were in the Valley. Dr. Serena told that despite odds, she was able to find 50 participants but they were scared to speak about what had happened to them after abrogation. However, findings were predictive as people felt more alienated & credibly fearful. Dr. Khurram discussed Conflict Resolution Approaches for Jammu and Kashmir Dispute: Policy Options for Pakistan. He pointed out the areas where Pakistan must focus, i-e; Internal consolidation, Cultivation of global partnership, Integrated Kashmir strategy & Strategic patience. Dr. Suddahazai said that October 27 marks an important junction in history. He focused on Cultivating strategic narratives and dialogical framing on Kashmir. He said that he has strong heritage links and deep connections with Kashmir. Indian business is expanding in the Valley so that it becomes economically dependent. He also compared the situation of Gaza in context. Dr. Suddahazai highlighted how Indian Journalists and Bollywood have created an industry around tourism to Kashmir and its economic development. Advocate Mansoor Kataria shed light on the role of youth in the recent movement in AJK. He said that Kashmiris are facing the issue of identity crisis. He expressed that geographically, Kashmiris are more viable & comfortable with Pakistan. Advocate Kataria emphasized that Kashmiri youth should be involved in the process of finding peace in the valley. The Guest Speakers Congratulated Prof. Goraya, Director CSAS for holding such a timely seminar in commemoration of Black Day. The Chief Guest Nabeela Ayoub Khan appreciated the organizing Committee and speakers for their fruitful discussion. She said that it is the darkest day in the history of Kashmir movement and it indeed started back in 1832. Ms. Nabeela showed optimism that no one can suppress the voices of Kashmiris, as it is not merely a piece of land but our Jugular vein.