Nagaland: Prof Jayanta Choudhury Appointed to Prestigious IASSI Executive Committee
Kohima (Nagaland) Oct 18: In a significant recognition of his contributions to rural development and social sciences, Professor Jayanta Choudhury, Head of the Department of Rural Development and Planning at Nagaland University, Meriema, has been co-opted as an Executive Committee Member of the Indian Association of Social Science Institutions (IASSI).
The appointment was formally announced following the IASSI meeting held at Doon University, Dehradun, on October 11, 2025.
The meeting, held under the distinguished Chairmanship of Professor Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice-Chancellor of Nalanda University, Bihar, saw the inclusion of several prominent academics and researchers into the IASSI’s leadership.
Professor Choudhury’s appointment is particularly noteworthy, bringing the perspective of rural development and the specific insights from India’s North-Eastern region to the national platform of social science discourse.
The Indian Association of Social Science Institutions (IASSI), established in 1979, has a long-standing history of promoting research and training in the social sciences.
Its primary objective is to foster interdisciplinary collaboration among social science institutions across the country and to serve as a vital interface between academicians and policymakers.
Professor Choudhury, known for his extensive research and academic leadership in rural development and planning, is expected to play a crucial role in advancing IASSI’s mission.
The Association actively seeks to address critical issues related to development, socio-economic marginalization, sustainable growth, governance, and the equitable distribution of resources – areas in which Professor Choudhury has demonstrated deep expertise.
Speaking on the appointment, colleagues at Nagaland University expressed immense pride, highlighting Professor Choudhury’s dedication to impactful research and his commitment to addressing societal challenges.
His inclusion in the IASSI Executive Committee is seen as an opportunity to further strengthen the link between academic research and policy formulation, particularly in areas pertinent to rural communities and regional development.

This appointment underscores the growing recognition of scholars from institutions across India and their collective effort to shape the national agenda for social science research and its application in policymaking.
Professor Choudhury’s tenure is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and renewed impetus to IASSI’s ongoing initiatives.