Agartala, February 23, 2026: The two-day international conference titled “Digital Society and Human Values: Reimagining Integral Humanism in the AI Era” began on Saturday at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi. The conference is being jointly organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh (ABRSM), Shaikshik Foundation, and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College.

The deliberations aim to examine the ethical, social, educational, and civilizational challenges arising from Artificial Intelligence and rapid digitalisation. Central to the discussions is a renewed interpretation of the philosophy of Integral Humanism propounded by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, with the objective of developing a value-oriented framework for a digitally evolving society.

Addressing the inaugural session, Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics & Information Technology, highlighted India’s growing role in shaping a global, inclusive AI ecosystem. Referring to the recently held international AI summit, he noted that 86 countries endorsed a global understanding affirming that AI must remain human-centric and grounded in values. He also cautioned against emerging threats such as deepfakes and AI-driven misinformation, underlining the need for vigilance alongside innovation.

The conference is being held under the leadership of Dr. Narayan Lal Gupta, President of ABRSM, who emphasised the importance of inclusive and value-based AI development. Prof. Geeta Bhatt, Director of NCWEB and General Secretary of ABRSM, described the conference as an attempt to chart a balanced roadmap where technological advancement aligns with ethical principles and India’s philosophical traditions.

Welcoming the delegates, Prof. Hem Chandra Jain, Principal of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College and Conference Convener, termed the event a significant step towards reaffirming human values in the AI era. Guest of Honour Prof. Alok Kumar Chakrawal, Vice Chancellor of Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, observed that AI must function as an assisting tool rather than a guiding authority for humanity.

The first day concluded with plenary sessions by eminent scholars, including Prof. Anand Ranganathan and Prof. Jagadesh Kumar, focusing on rebuilding social trust in an age of automation. Over 800 educationists, researchers, and policy thinkers from across the country participated.

Notably, nine faculty members from various degree colleges of Tripura are attending the conference, marking the state’s growing engagement in national debates on technology, society, and Bharatiya thought. ABRSM, Tripura Prant, has expressed pride in this participation and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting value-based education in the region.