The 105th National Annual Conference of the Numismatic Society of India has begun in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Organized by the Himachal Pradesh State Museum, the three-day conference has drawn scholars, delegates, and students from various parts of the country.
Conference Significance
Hari Chauhan, the organizer, highlighted the significance of the conference in establishing an authentic source of history. He emphasized that research scholars from different regions of India study currency and numismatics, contributing to the understanding of archaeology and historical records. The conference provides a platform for students to delve into the history represented by coins and currency.
Coin Fare Exhibition
The conference also features a coin fare exhibition displaying physical coins and showcasing the Indian currency system. It presents a historical narrative of rulers dating back to the 6th century BC. Chauhan expressed pride in Himachal Pradesh hosting the 105th conference, with nearly 40 research papers being presented by professors and research scholars.
Importance of Coin and Currency in History
D Raja Reddy, the Chairman of the Numismatic Society of India, underlined the importance of understanding the role of coins and currency in history. He explained that coin usage in India dates back to the 6th Century BC, making India one of the three countries to introduce coins. The decipherment of Brahmi Karuti scripts from coins played a pivotal role in historical research.
Role of the Numismatic Society of India
The Numismatic Society of India is the country’s oldest institution dedicated to coin and currency research. It encourages the study and research of Indian Numismatics, aiming to coordinate and promote knowledge in the field. The society publishes various publications, including The Journal of the Numismatic Society of India, an esteemed journal in the discipline.
The society holds annual conferences and seminars in different cities, contributing to the study and promotion of Indian Numismatics.