Question on Pushpak Viman raised at AI conference:Students say focus was on Ramayan Katha, not technology; event funded under PM-USHA scheme

Questions have been raised regarding the content of the international AI conference held at Rani Durgavati University. It is alleged that in this program, organized on a technical subject like Artificial Intelligence, instead of scientific discussion, examples related to the Ramayana were given. This conference was held from February 26 to 28, 2026, on the theme ‘Science for a Sustainable Future: Innovation at the Interface of Pure and Applied Research (SSFIIPAR 2026)’. The program was organised in both online and offline modes and received funding under the PM-USHA scheme. Examples related to the Ramayana were given during the speech Student Abhishek Mishra stated that he had come to give his practical exam, but he was asked to sit in the conference. In the initial session, some teachers spoke on subjects related to science and AI, but later the focus of the session changed. Abhishek said that during the Vice-Chancellor’s speech in the approximately one-and-a-half-hour session, examples related to Ramayana were given. Students were asked how AI could explain how Ravana’s Pushpak Vimana flew or how Hanuman brought Sanjeevani. Such discussions were different from the conference’s theme, and students were surprised. Students said – technical depth was lacking Some research scholars said they expected in-depth discussions on AI, data science, and new technologies. They were surprised that the sessions had more formal speeches than technical presentations. Questions raised on Rs 75 lakh soft skill fund According to the information, work orders were issued on February 16. The conference brochure was released just three days before the event. Discussions are underway regarding the preparation for an international-level event in such a short time. Around 75 lakh rupees were received under the PM-Usha soft skill head. It is being said that 20 lakh rupees had to be returned and 5 lakh rupees had already lapsed. The process of spending the remaining money has accelerated before the end of the financial year. Research scholars said, information received late Many research scholars from the Science stream say that they did not receive information about the conference on time. Information regarding a standard journal or ISBN/ISSN proceedings for paper publication was not provided beforehand. Lack of facilities in computer science department Some students said that the Computer Science Department lacks internet and basic infrastructure. Many computers are not working. They have demanded that officials visit the department. Registrar says – sessions also held on AI topics Dr. Surendra Singh, the Registrar of the University, said that all science subjects were included in the three-day conference. Sessions were held on various AI-related topics. Discussions between students and the administration regarding the matter are ongoing. NSUI District President Sachin Rajak said that in other colleges, before a seminar, the subject, sub-topics, abstract submission date, and publication details are released in advance. Such information was not clearly available for this conference.