The School of Sciences, CHRIST University Pune Lavasa Campus, in collaboration with Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) & VIVES University of Applied Sciences, Belgium hosted a prestigious International Conclave titled on “Strategizing India’s Role in a Dynamic Asian and Global Landscape” from 31st March to 5th April 2025. This meaningful event brought together scholars, policymakers, academicians, and thought leaders from India and abroad to discuss and reflect on India’s role in the changing global landscape. The event featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and research presentations that encouraged cross-disciplinary conversations on geopolitics, economic strength, sustainability, and future-ready governance. Its hybrid format allowed wide participation and led to valuable insights for shaping India’s long-term policy strategies. Amid changing global power dynamics, economic trends, and sustainability priorities, the conclave provided a strong platform to examine India’s present role and explore future strategies through discussions across various disciplines. It effectively combined academic depth, policy dialogue, and forward-thinking approaches, offering a valuable experience for all participants.
The event was structured to offer a comprehensive and engaging experience through a blend of academic, strategic, and interactive formats. It unfolded over six days, beginning with a three-day online Workshop on Futuristic Thinking and Strategic Foresight from 31st March to 2nd April 2025, setting the tone for future-oriented discourse. This was followed by the inaugural ceremony of the International Conference on 3rd April 2025, which marked the formal commencement of the on-campus segment of the event. The event was attended by participants from various institutions and organizations across India and abroad.
The Inaugural function was presided over by Shri. Hitesh Rajpal, Director, Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA). He shared a comprehensive overview of the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), its mission, and its continuing contributions to India’s foreign policy discourse. He emphasized the significance of Futures Literacy as a vital tool for strategic planning in today’s rapidly evolving Asian and global context. He reflected on India’s emerging role, its long-term vision for Asia and the world, and outlined the key pillars essential for positioning India strategically in the region, highlighting the nation's forward-looking approach and commitment to shaping the future. His address encapsulated India’s forward-looking approach and commitment to global cooperation, setting a thoughtful and visionary tone for the conclave.
The inaugural function was followed by the keynote addresses, paper presentations and panel discussions. The sessions were intellectually diverse and interdisciplinary, focusing on both macro-level global challenges and micro-level governance issues.
Event Highlights:
1.Workshop on Futuristic Thinking (31st March – 2nd April 2025 | Online Mode)
A three-day virtual workshop served as a precursor to the main conference, introducing participants to the concepts of strategic foresight, scenario planning, and futures thinking. The sessions were facilitated by national and international experts in public policy, behavioural science, governance innovation, and systems thinking.
Workshop Themes:
- Futures Thinking in Policy & Governance
- Strategic Foresight for Business and Economy
- Behavioural and Societal Shifts
- Sustainability and Ethics in Future Planning
Session 1: Understanding the Present to Navigate the Future
Speaker: Ms. Lourdes Rodriguez, Consultant Trends and Strategic Foresight, Madrid, Spain
Date: 31.03.2025
Venue: Google Meet (Online)
Time: 6:30 pm
Ms. Lourdes Rodriguez introduced futuristic thinking tools like scenario planning and trend analysis, providing practical insights for anticipating future scenarios. emphasized the importance of developing foresight capabilities to navigate the complexities of our VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) world. The interactive session allowed participants to explore how these methodologies can be applied in Indian and global contexts. It concluded with a Q&A, where Ms. Rodríguez addressed emerging trends and the role of education in fostering foresight-driven mindsets, inspiring attendees to adopt a strategic approach towards the future.
Session 2: Urban Planning
Speaker: Dr. Priyadarhini Karve, CEO, Clean Energy Access Network, Pune
Date: 01.04.2025
Venue: Google Meet (Online)
Time: 6:30 pm
Dr. Priyadarshini Karve delved into the significance of renewable energy as a sustainable solution to meet urban energy demands, emphasizing the role of solar cooking as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional methods. She highlighted the importance of energy-efficient kitchen solutions that promote sustainability in everyday cooking practices. Additionally, she discussed the concept of energy sufficiency, advocating for a shift away from fossil fuels to create a cleaner and more sustainable future. The session also addressed strategies for eliminating greenhouse gases, underscoring the need for proactive measures to mitigate environmental impact.
She addressed emerging trends in urban planning and the role of education in fostering sustainability-driven mindsets. She emphasized the importance of integrating climate-conscious strategies into urban development, inspiring attendees to adopt a forward-thinking approach toward creating greener, more resilient cities.
Session 3: Futuristic Education
Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Singh, Professor (English), Dept. of Humanities,
O.P.Jindal University, Raigarh, Chattisgarh
Date: 02.04.2025
Venue: Google Meet (Online)
Time: 6:30 pm
The session was designed to challenge conventional thought patterns and encourage innovative perspectives on the future of education. Dr. Singh began with an interactive thinking activity, where participants were engaged in an alternative thinking exercise, emphasizing the need for critical and creative thinking in modern education. He further talked about a comparative analysis of past and current education systems and AI & Automation in Education, and Dr. Singh emphasized the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a transformative framework, particularly its focus on multidisciplinary learning, flexible curricula, and vocational education.
The attendees discussed challenges and solutions in implementing futuristic education models. Dr. Singh encouraged educators and policymakers to embrace change, foster innovation, and prepare students for a rapidly evolving global landscape.
This session provided valuable ideas about the future of education and set the stage for further dialogue on technology-driven curriculum reforms and progressive educational policies.
2. International Conference (3rd – 5th April 2025 | On-Campus)
i. Speakers: Ms. Tine Ternest, Head, Global Engagement Office,
Vives University of Applied Sciences, Belgium
Ms. Lies Verstraete, Global Engagement Office,
Vives University of Applied Sciences, Belgium
Theme: Cross-cultural Academic Collaborations and Global Citizenship
Ms. Tine and Ms. Lies spoke about the concept of Futures Literacy and its importance in curricula. They highlighted the significance of collaborative learning, intercultural competencies, and the importance of student and faculty exchange in building a cohesive global future.
ii. Speaker: Dr. Mathew A. Varghese, Director, Center for Urban Studies and Assistant Professor, SIRP
Theme: India’s Role in Global Strategic Discourses
Dr. Mathew A. Varghese provided a thought-provoking analysis of India’s diplomatic strategies and its potential leadership role in shaping regional and global frameworks. His talk enriched the audience with critical perspectives on geopolitics and policy-making.
iii.
Speaker: Mr. John Mathew, CEO, Riafy Technologies
Theme: Tech for GoodMr. John explored how AI can be designed for ethical and responsible use. HE emphasised on the importance of ethics in using machines focusing on metacognition, conscience, and explainability.
iv. Speaker: Dr. Priyadarshini Karve, CEO,
Clean Energy Access Network, Pune
Theme: 'Climate Ready Campuses'
Dr. Priyadarshani spoke about the urgent need for climate preparedness and our collective role and responsibility in mitigating its effects. She emphasized on the emergence of global warming, its adverse effects and the role of developed countries in this process. She also spoke about how educational institutions can play a vital role in bringing about the change by providing climate change education.
3. Panel Discussion Competition (4th April 2025|On Campus)
As a unique feature of this conclave, a Panel Discussion Competition was organized for graduate and postgraduate students, research scholars, and early-career professionals. Participants submitted concept notes around futuristic themes such as geopolitical shifts, behavioural policy, and digital diplomacy. The competition offered a dynamic platform for young minds to debate, deliberate, and present policy-oriented solutions.
4. Research Paper Presentations (3rd and 4th April 2025|Blended mode)
Participants from various regions showcased diverse perspectives and research contributions. These presentations enriched the discussions, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the conclave. The paper presentations were in blended mode (online & offline) attended by students and researchers.
The Conclave was culminated by the valedictory ceremony on 5th April 2025. The ceremony featured closing remarks by the participants, volunteers and the conveners, who highlighted the rich interdisciplinary dialogue, policy insights, and collaborative spirit that shaped the conclave. Special appreciation was extended to all the speakers, presenters, participants, and partners, especially the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) and VIVES University of Applied Sciences, Belgium, for their instrumental support in making the event a success.
Selected participants were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to research presentations and the panel discussion competition, and certificates were distributed to mark participation and achievement. The session concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the organizing team, volunteers, administrative staff, and the CHRIST University leadership for their commitment and coordination.
The International Conclave proved to be platform for thoughtful engagement, visionary thinking, and strategic collaboration. With its focus on India’s evolving role in the global order, the conclave empowered participants with tools for futures literacy, insights into policy innovation, and a renewed commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. The ideas generated and connections built during this conclave are expected to inspire future initiatives, research, and policymaking in the years to come.
The International Conclave on Strategizing India’s Role brought powerful insights into India's evolving position in Asia and the world. Thought leaders highlighted strategic priorities and future challenges. It was an engaging event with meaningful discussions. Excited to see how tools like flaresolver can support data gathering in such global dialogues.
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