Srinagar, Nov 10: The Institute of Kashmir Studies (IKS), University of Kashmir, on Tuesday commenced a two-day workshop on ‘Anthropology in Kashmir: Methodologies, Ethics, and Engagement for a Deeper Understanding of Kashmiri Society’ at the varsity’s Main Campus.

The workshop aims to familiarise students and researchers with research methodologies and ethical considerations in studying society and culture, while encouraging field-based research and meaningful engagement with local communities.
Speaking at the inaugural session, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan said understanding society required rigorous research and meaningful interaction with communities. She stressed the need to document local experiences and perspectives through responsible academic work.
“Research must go beyond observation and engage with people's lived experiences, respecting their voices and identities,” she said.
Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada highlighted anthropology's role in understanding social relationships and cultural practices. He emphasised the importance of developing strong research skills and ensuring ethical responsibility during fieldwork.
Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal said such workshops provide students and young researchers an opportunity to interact with experienced scholars and strengthen their research approaches.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Farhana Ibrahim of Social Anthropology, IIT Delhi, discussed ethnography as a method of understanding society through close engagement with people and their everyday lives. She highlighted the importance of fieldwork, observation and building relationships with communities, while underscoring researchers' ethical responsibilities.
Earlier, Director IKS and workshop convenor Prof. Aijaz Ashraf Wani said the initiative was aimed at strengthening understanding of anthropological research methods and their relevance to the study of Kashmiri society.
An abstract book and a report on fieldwork findings by IKS Anthropology students were also released on the occasion.
The inaugural proceedings were conducted by workshop coordinator Dr. Farrukh Faheem, while Dr. Ibrahim Wani delivered the vote of thanks.