IIT Mandi successfully hosted MBCC 2026 with 400+ participants, Padma Subrahmanyam’s dance performance, and global experts discussing consciousness, neuroscience, mental health and Indian knowledge systems.
IIT Mandi Successfully Concludes MBCC 2026 Conference
The Indian Institute of Technology Mandi successfully hosted the 3rd International Mind, Brain and Consciousness Conference (MBCC 2026) from June 3 to 6 at its Kamand campus in Himachal Pradesh. More than 400 participants from India and abroad registered for the event. The event brought together global experts, researchers and artists to discuss consciousness, neuroscience, mental health and Indian knowledge systems. The conference concluded with productive discussions and meaningful collaborations among attendees.
The event was organised by the Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications (IKSMHA) Centre at IIT Mandi under the Indian Knowledge Systems Division of Ministry of Education. IIT Mandi Director Prof. Laxmidhar Behera led the conference along with a team of eminent academicians and researchers, ensuring high-quality programming and successful execution.
Padma Subrahmanyam Delivers Special Dance Performance at Inaugural Session
The major attraction of the conference was the participation of renowned Bharatanatyam exponent Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, who attended the inaugural session as chief guest and presented a special dance performance on June 3. Her performance beautifully illustrated the connection between classical Indian dance, consciousness, and neural responses. It captivated the audience and set the tone for subsequent discussions.
Dr. Subrahmanyam’s presence highlighted the conference’s commitment to integrating traditional Indian knowledge systems with modern scientific understanding. Her performance demonstrated how ancient art forms embody profound insights about mind-brain relationships that contemporary neuroscience is now validating through research.
Global Experts Share Research on Consciousness and Neuroscience
Researchers, scholars, students, industry experts, media representatives and members of the public participated in the conference, engaging in presentations, panel discussions and interactive sessions. Scientists from leading international institutions presented cutting-edge research on consciousness mechanisms, neural plasticity, brain imaging technologies, and cognitive processes.
The conference featured sessions on advanced neuroscience topics including brain-computer interfaces, neural decoding techniques, memory formation mechanisms, and perceptual processing. Researchers shared findings from experimental studies using EEG, fMRI, and other neuroimaging technologies to understand how the brain generates conscious experiences.
Mental Health Applications and Wellbeing Strategies Discussed
Significant attention focused on mental health applications and wellbeing strategies, with experts presenting evidence-based approaches for managing stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. Researchers discussed how Indian knowledge systems offer complementary perspectives to Western psychology, including mindfulness practices, yoga therapies, and meditation techniques.
Participants explored practical applications of consciousness research for improving mental wellbeing in educational settings, healthcare facilities, and workplace environments. The conference emphasized developing holistic approaches that combine scientific understanding with traditional wisdom for optimal mental health outcomes.
Indian Knowledge Systems Integration with Modern Science
The conference highlighted strong integration between Indian knowledge systems and modern scientific understanding. Scholars presented research demonstrating how ancient texts on consciousness, meditation, and mind-brain relationships align with contemporary neuroscience findings.
Discussions covered classical Indian philosophical frameworks including Advaita Vedanta, Yoga Sutras, and Ayurvedic principles that explain consciousness and mental processes. Researchers showed how these traditional systems provide valuable insights that complement Western scientific approaches, offering comprehensive frameworks for understanding human experience.
Industry Experts Present Technology Applications and Innovations
Industry experts presented technology applications and innovations in neuroscience, including developments in brain monitoring devices, mental health apps, and AI-powered diagnostic tools. Companies showcased products designed to support wellbeing, improve cognitive performance, and treat mental health conditions using neuroscience-based approaches.
The technology segment demonstrated how commercial applications translate research findings into practical solutions for everyday use. Participants learned about emerging markets in neuroscience technology and opportunities for collaboration between academic researchers and industry partners.
Public Engagement and Media Outreach Strengthen Awareness
Media representatives attended the conference to disseminate information about consciousness research and mental health to broader audiences. The public participated in open sessions, gaining access to expert knowledge about brain function, consciousness, and wellbeing strategies.
The conference’s public engagement component helped demystify complex scientific concepts and promote understanding of mental health issues. Media coverage ensured that conference insights reached people beyond the academic community, contributing to public education about neuroscience and wellbeing.
Conference Establishes Collaborative Networks for Future Research
The MBCC 2026 conference successfully established collaborative networks among participants, setting foundations for future research collaborations and joint projects. Researchers identified opportunities for interdisciplinary studies combining neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and Indian knowledge systems.
The event concluded with participants expressing satisfaction with the program quality, depth of discussions, and meaningful connections formed. IIT Mandi’s IKSMHA Centre demonstrated its capability to host major international conferences, positioning the institute as a leader in consciousness studies and mental health research in India.
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