1. Introduction
Pursuant to the decision of the Research Committee of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies (FBS), Lumbini Buddhist University (LBU), the Proposal Defense for Mini Research projects was successfully conducted on Chaitra 15-16, 2082 (March 29-30, 2026) via Zoom, commencing at 7:30 AM each day.
This academic exercise was organized to strengthen research capacity, ensure methodological rigor, and uphold international standards of scholarly inquiry in the field of Buddhist Studies.
2. Objectives and Scope
The proposal defense aimed to:
- Critically evaluate the conceptual, theoretical, and methodological foundations of submitted proposals;
- Provide structured and constructive expert feedback;
- Ensure alignment with recognized academic and ethical research standards;
- Support the development of high-quality, impactful, and contextually relevant research.
3. Panel Composition and Schedule of Defense
3.1 Panel Composition
The defense sessions were chaired by Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya, Dean of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies. The commentators and evaluators included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fanindra Kumar Neupane and Mr. Sanjay Shakya (Lecturer). The program was coordinated by Mr. Kamal Thapa (Asst. Lecturer), who also served as the Member of the Research Committee.
The applicants who presented their research proposals were Ms. Sushma Acharya and Mr. Kiran Shrestha.
3.2 Schedule and Defense Proceedings
The Proposal Defense followed a structured academic process:
- Chair: Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya
- Welcome Address: Mr. Kamal Thapa
- Presentation by Applicants
- Feedback by Experts and Evaluators
- Question and Answer (Q&A) Session
- Conclusion and Closing Remarks
The sessions were conducted in an orderly and academically rigorous manner, ensuring active participation, critical engagement, and constructive evaluation of each proposal.
4. Virtual Session Details
- Topic: Mini Research Proposal Defence
- Platform: Zoom
- Time: 7:30 AM (Daily Session)
- Join Zoom Meeting:
https://nren.zoom.us/j/98125039350?pwd=9ei6L7ipt10uLOTxrlb5RKKTxnASVR.1 - Meeting ID: 981 2503 9350
- Passcode: 673432
5. Schedule and Research Proposals Presented
Day 1: Chaitra 15, 2082
Presenter: Ms. Sushma Acharya
Title: Saṅgha-Pariṇāma within Dhamma-Vinaya: A Case Study of O-SAL Chöling Monastery, Godavari
Day 2: Chaitra 16, 2082
Presenter: Mr. Kiran Shrestha
Title: Bhāvanā in Spiritual Tourism: A Case Study of Boudhanath
6. Proceedings and Academic Deliberations
Each session was conducted in a rigorous academic environment followed by critical discussion and scholarly evaluation.
Key feedback included:
- Strengthening theoretical and conceptual frameworks;
- Ensuring clarity in Buddhist terminology;
- Improving research design and methodological structure;
- Aligning research questions with expected outcomes.
7. Key Observations, Recommendations and Concluding Remarks
The panel recommended the refinement of research methodology, strengthening of conceptual and theoretical grounding, and ensuring coherence across all components of the proposals. Applicants were advised to revise their work mindfully, with particular attention to clarity, structure, and academic rigor.
From the evaluative perspectives of Mr. Sanjay Shakya and Dr. Fanindra Kumar Neupane, the proposals demonstrated a promising level of academic engagement; however, both commentators emphasized the need for deeper analytical framing, improved articulation of research questions, and stronger alignment between objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. They further highlighted the importance of precise use of Buddhist terminology and contextual relevance in line with scholarly standards.
The sessions were formally concluded with appreciative remarks by the Chair, Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya, who expressed satisfaction with the overall academic quality and reaffirmed the Faculty’s commitment to promoting excellence in research.
The program was effectively coordinated and facilitated by Mr. Kamal Thapa, ensuring smooth execution and meaningful engagement throughout the sessions.