Mann Ki Baat – Revival of Shastrarth

• In the 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Nalanda University for reviving the ancient Indian tradition of Shastrarth.
• Shastrarth is a classical Indian system of structured intellectual debate, where ideas are examined through logic, evidence, and reasoned discussion rather than confrontation.
• The term is derived from “Shastra” (scriptures or knowledge) and “Artha” (meaning or interpretation), reflecting the pursuit of truth through scholarly dialogue.
• The revival of this tradition promotes critical thinking, academic inquiry, and India’s rich philosophical heritage in contemporary higher education.

APSC Relevance: Indian Philosophy; Nalanda University