Conference Overview
The 19th All India Conference of Chinese Studies (AICCS) 2026 took place from October 28 to 30 at Nagaland University’s Lumami campus. It was jointly organized by the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), New Delhi, and the Department of Political Science, Nagaland University (NU).
Participants and Presentations
Over 27 institutions across India participated in the three-day conference. A total of 90 abstracts were received, and 54 papers were selected for presentation across 11 thematic panels and two special panels.
Key Discussion Topics
Discussions centered around several key areas related to China, including China’s political economy, governance, technological advancement, and strategic relations. Specific topics explored included challenges in China Studies within India, such as research infrastructure gaps, Chinese language education limitations, and faculty availability, particularly in the Northeast.
Sessions also examined emerging issues like artificial intelligence (AI), digital governance, critical mineral supply chains, semiconductor infrastructure, cybersecurity, and the implications of technological dependence for national security.
Emphasis on Research Approaches
The valedictory session highlighted the importance of independent, evidence-based research on China, utilizing primary sources. Participants emphasized the need for interdisciplinary approaches and increased involvement of young scholars, especially those from the Northeast region.
AI-Related Concerns
Speakers addressed concerns surrounding AI, including digital inequality, potential employment displacement, ethical considerations, and dependence on foreign technologies.
Future Plans
The conference concluded with a call to deepen empirical research, strengthen interdisciplinary scholarship, and enhance India’s institutional capacity for China Studies. The 20th AICCS is scheduled to be hosted by Chanakya University, Bengaluru, in 2027.
Source: MorungExpress. Featured image credit: MorungExpress.
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