The 23rd edition of India Conference organized by students at Harvard with the theme of “The India we Imagine” is set to spotlight on India’s present landscape and future potential as a major global force.
The largest India-focused conference in the U.S., hosted by students across the schools of Harvard University, on Feb. 14 and 15, explores the rich diversity of India, spotlighting the country’s rise as a major global force.
The organizers said that the theme India we Imagine “invites reflection on the values, complexities, and possibilities shaping India’s future by spotlighting voices that provoke and inspire our collective imagination.”
Through three subthemes, the conference will explore the diverse forces shaping India’s identity, progress, and path forward. “Together, these threads weave our vision for India’s future.”
The first sub theme, “Who we are: culture, identity, and belonging” puts a spotlight on voices that provoke and inspire our collective imagination
The second, “What we navigate: complexities, dualities, and pathways,” provides a reflection on the values, complexities, and pathways shaping India’s future.
The third, “How we build: change-makers, spaces, and systems” offers a “tapestry of threads weaving our vision for India’s future.”
Day 1 at Harvard Kennedy School will focus on government and society. Agenda will include an opening and closing keynote, multiple panel discussions, a policy hackathon, and an interactive art showcase.
Day 2 at Harvard Business School will focus on business and economy. Agenda will include an opening and closing keynote, multiple panel discussions, and a live pitch competition.
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The conference will feature a keynote address by Shashi Tharoor, chairman of India’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs. A former United Nations under-secretary-general will anchor the conference theme through the lens of India’s constitutional ideals, democratic traditions and international engagement.
Other speakers include actor and producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas; Anjula Acharia, CEO, Founder, Cultural Catalyst; PV Sindhu, Olympic medalist and badminton player; Rohit Jawa, former CEO & MD, Hindustan Unilever Limited; Vijay Kumar, Executive Chef, Semma, New York; and Anish Gawande, writer, politician, and founder of Pink List India.
For over 22 years, Harvard students across schools have united to host experts from fields such as business, economics, education, and culture, offering attendees a well-rounded perspective on India’s present landscape and future potential, organizers say.