In a significant step towards enhancing educational, scientific, and cultural collaboration between India and Russia, Kalmyk State University named after B. B. Gorodovikov, Elista, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Nalanda University, India — one of the world’s most ancient centers of learning.

The meeting was held at Kalmyk State University in the presence of senior dignitaries from both sides, including Mr. Nikhilesh Chandra Giri, Minister Plenipotentiary, Embassy of India in the Russian Federation; Mr. Vinay Kumar, Minister (Education), Embassy of India; Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice-Chancellor, Nalanda University (who joined the meeting via video link); Mr. Aleksey Eteyev, Deputy Chairman of the Regional Government of Kalmykia; and Prof. Badma Salayev, Rector, Kalmyk State University.

Welcoming the dignitaries, Rector Prof. Badma Salayev underlined the importance of this partnership, noting that the visit of Indian diplomats and academic representatives marks a new chapter in the deepening of educational and cultural cooperation. He observed that the recent arrival of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha from India to Kalmykia holds profound symbolic significance, further strengthening interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

Prof. Salayev highlighted that Kalmyk State University actively collaborates with universities in 23 countries and hosts about 1,500 international students from 53 nations, including 50 Indian nationals. He emphasized that international partnerships in education, research, and cultural exchange remain a top priority for the University.

Representing Nalanda University, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi noted that the collaboration aligns with Nalanda’s historical legacy as a global hub of knowledge and intercultural exchange. Founded in the 5th century CE, Nalanda University stands as a symbol of India’s enduring intellectual and spiritual traditions.

The discussions outlined several areas of future collaboration, including:

• Academic exchange programs in Sanskrit, Pali, Russian, and Buddhist Studies.
• Research internships for Kalmyk scholars at Nalanda University.
• Joint projects such as “Healthcare: Ayurveda and Kalmyk Traditional Medicine” and “The Elderly in Russian and Indian Societies.”
• Preparation of a “Concise Encyclopedia of the Buddhist Written Heritage of Russia and India.”
• Development of dual degree programs and joint cultural festivals.

The meeting also took note of the success of the recently held III International Buddhist Forum in Elista, which brought together more than 7,000 participants and led to the creation of new international research collaborations. Kalmyk State University, in partnership with universities in Tuva, Buryatia, and Transbaikal, will soon establish a Research Centre for the Translation of Buddhist Texts and Cultural Monuments.

The signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation between Kalmyk State University and Nalanda University provides the institutional framework for all planned initiatives, including student and faculty exchanges, joint research, and academic events.

Both sides expressed confidence that the partnership will open new horizons for students and scholars from India and Russia and elevate bilateral cooperation in education, culture, and the humanities to a new level.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

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