An academic visit was organized by the Department of Geography and the Department of Economics, School of Tribal Resource Management (STRM), Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences Deemed to be University (KISS-DU), to Kalabhoomi on 21st March 2026. A total of 42 postgraduate students and research scholars participated in the programme.
The visit proved to be highly enriching offering both theoretical insights and practical exposure to Odisha’s cultural heritage. It helped students from Geography Department to understand Geography the spatial distribution of cultural practices, the interaction between human societies and their environment, and the role of cultural landscapes in shaping regional identity. They were able to relate museum exhibits to concepts such as cultural diffusion, human-environment interaction, and regional diversity. The museum’s galleries also helped them visualize how traditional knowledge systems are embedded within specific ecological and geographical contexts.
Students from the Economics Departments, on the other hand, gained valuable insights into the economic dimensions of traditional crafts and livelihoods. They learned about the role of handicrafts in local and regional economies, employment generation, value chains, and the importance of preserving indigenous industries in the era of globalization. Exposure to crafts such as stone carving, wood carving, metal work, terracotta, and handloom weaving (Ikat and Sambalpuri textiles) helped them understand issues related to market demand, sustainability, and rural development.
Overall, the visit enhanced interdisciplinary learning, encouraged critical thinking, and provided practical knowledge that complements classroom teaching, making it a highly beneficial academic exercise for all participants.
