Two-Day National Seminar on Digital Empowerment and Rural Livelihoods (ICSSR Sponsored)

Event Overview & Host Profile

The ICSSR Seminar on Digital Empowerment & Rural Livelihoods Department of Economics at the Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS), Chennai, is organizing a prestigious Two-Day National Seminar titled “Digital Empowerment and Rural Livelihoods in India: Pathways to Inclusive and Sustainable Transformation.”ICSSR Seminar on Digital Empowerment & Rural Livelihoods

This high-impact academic gathering is sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research – Southern Regional Centre (ICSSR-SRC).

About the Host:

Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (Deemed to be University) is a premier institution in India, accredited with an “A+” Grade by NAAC. This seminar aligns with the institution’s commitment to the Vision Viksit Bharat @2047, exploring how digital interventions can bridge the rural-urban divide.

If you are a faculty member or research scholar looking to publish quality papers for your CAS promotion, this ICSSR-sponsored event offers a valuable platform for peer networking and academic recognition.

Detailed Objectives

The core objective of this seminar is to critically assess how digital technology—under the Digital India Mission—is re-engineering traditional rural occupational structures. Participants will move beyond basic discussions of internet access to explore:

  • Policy Critique: Assessing the impact of schemes like BharatNet and PM-WANI on the ground.
  • Livelihood Diversification: How digital tools are creating non-farm employment in rural sectors.
  • Inclusivity: Addressing the digital divide across gender, caste, and income levels.
  • Sustainability: Co-creating solutions for climate-resilient rural economies.

Key Themes & Topics

The seminar invites research papers on the following sub-themes:

  • Digital Solutions for Livelihoods: ICT-enabled employment and rural entrepreneurship.
  • Agri-Tech Innovations: Precision farming, Drones, IoT, and Soil Advisory Platforms.
  • Financial Inclusion: Impact of UPI, AePS, and FinTech on rural financial stability.
  • Governance: Digital technologies for Gram Panchayat governance and Smart Villages.
  • Social Equity: Digital literacy and financial awareness for women, farmers, and youth.
  • Infrastructure: Strengthening rural connectivity through CSCs and geospatial tools.

Note: Selected papers will be published in the Seminar Proceedings with an ISBN, adding significant value to your academic portfolio.

Critical Logistics

FeatureDetails
Event DatesMarch 12 – 13, 2026
ModePhysical (Offline)
VenueHindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR), Padur, Chennai – 603103.
Abstract SubmissionJanuary 10, 2026
Full Paper DeadlineFebruary 20, 2026
Notification of AcceptanceJanuary 15, 2026

Registration & Payment Details

Participation involves a structured registration process. While ICSSR-sponsored events are often subsidized, specific registration fees apply for certification and kit expenses.

Fee Structure:

  • Please refer to the official brochure for the exact fee breakdown for Students, Scholars, and Faculty.
  • Payment is generally accepted via NEFT/IMPS to the University’s designated account.

How to Apply:

  1. Abstract Submission: Submit your 300-word abstract to the email provided below by Jan 10, 2026.
  2. Acceptance: Wait for the acceptance email (expected by Jan 15, 2026).
  3. Registration: Upon acceptance, complete the registration form (link below) and pay the requisite fee.
  4. Full Paper: Submit the final manuscript by Feb 20, 2026 for proceedings publication.

Contact Information

For queries regarding paper submission, accommodation, or travel, please contact the organizing committee:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is TA/DA provided for paper presenters?

As this is an ICSSR-sponsored event, travel allowances (TA) are often available for outstation paper presenters, subject to funding availability and ICSSR norms. You must produce original train/bus tickets. Please confirm this specific detail with the coordinator upon acceptance.

2. Can I participate without presenting a paper?

Yes, you can register as a “Participant” or “Delegate” to attend the sessions, network with experts, and receive a participation certificate.

3. Will the proceedings be Scopus indexed?

The brochure confirms publication in Seminar Proceedings with ISBN. While not guaranteed to be Scopus-indexed immediately, ISBN publications are recognized for API scores in many universities. Selected high-quality papers may be recommended for journals, but this is at the discretion of the editorial board.

4. Is accommodation provided?

The host institute usually provides accommodation for outstation participants in the university hostels/guest houses on a payment basis or gratis, depending on funds

5. What is the formatting style for the full paper?

Papers should generally follow APA style (Times New Roman, 12pt, 1.5 spacing). Ensure your abstract does not exceed 300 words and includes 5-6 keywords.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *