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Beyond Humanities: Why We Need Humanitics

1. The Problem Is Bigger Than the Humanities The debate over the future of the humanities has become increasingly familiar. Universities are asked whether disciplines such as literature studies, philosophy, political science, sociology, economics, etc continue to have sufficient intellectual or economic value in a world increasingly shaped by technology, data, artificial intelligence, and rapidly changing labour markets. Some critics question the usefulness of individual disciplines; others question the university's ability to deliver education that remains relevant to contemporary society. There is certainly a legitimate question here. Universities cannot assume that disciplines, curricula, teaching methods, and institutional structures should remain unchanged simply because they have existed for generations. The arrival of artificial intelligence makes this question even more urgent. AI is changing how knowledge is produced, retrieved, analysed, communicated, and applied. It is t...
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Living Between the Yatras: Reflections from a Himalayan Pilgrimage Town

The Annual Arrival One does not need a government notice or a calendar to know the beginning of the Yatra season in Uttarkashi. On any day in the second half of April, a walk along the town's main road, the Gangotri highway, would give the picture. The road becomes visibly busier, with pilgrims arriving in buses, vans, and utility vehicles. There are also small numbers of trekkers and bikers on their way to the upper reaches, and, in smaller numbers, young couples seeking Himalayan getaways. The town acquires a different rhythm.  Hotels along the main road become visibly busy. People can often be seen outside them, moving luggage, waiting for vehicles, gathering before departure, or returning from the day's journey. The same pattern extends beyond the town, with numerous hotels and lodging establishments along the highway becoming important stopping points for pilgrims and tourists. This is economically important for Uttarkashi. The Gangotri Dhaam Yatra (which is generally a pa...
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