Sachin Malik: The ‘Centre for Southeast Asian Studies’ (CSEAS) has been established at Nalanda University. The center was inaugurated by P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs. It will function as a knowledge Partner to Strengthen academic research, Policy engagement and cultural-civilizational ties between India and Southeast Asian Countries.
According to a Statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, the center will be based on ten interdisciplinary research groups covering areas such as Climate and maritime Studies, trade, heritage, Public health, migration, digital Cooperation and international relations. It aims to serve as a knowledge partner for the ‘ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Plan of Action 2026–2030’. The center will act as a bridge between India and Southeast Asia by Strengthening academic collaboration, supporting Policy dialogue and deepening cultural and civilizational Connections.
Alongside the inauguration of the center, Nalanda University second convocation ceremony was held with great enthusiasm. President Droupadi Murmu and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar attended the event. On this occasion, the President Planted a sapling of the Bodhi tree on the university campus, symbolizing Buddhist heritage and Indian spirituality. She also inaugurated a 2,000-seat auditorium named ‘Vishwamitralaya’.
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, in a Post on social media Platform X, wrote: “Over 600 graduates. 31 countries. A Shared journey. Nalanda revives memories of India intellectual heritage and cultural grandeur and reminds the world that technology and tradition, development and heritage, must always go hand in hand.”
It is worth noting that the modern Nalanda University is located in Rajgir, near the ancient ruins of Nalanda in Bihar and was established through an Act of Parliament. The establishment of the CSEAS center was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2025 during the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit held in Kuala Lumpur. This initiative is part of India ‘Act East Policy’ and efforts to revive the intellectual legacy of ancient Nalanda. The center is expected to emerge as a significant regional Platform supporting the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
