Audi 1 – Session 1 : 10.15 am
The first session of the Mangaluru LIT Festival began on the topic ‘Why India Matters : Narratives of New Global Order’ with Dr Nanda Kishor, the moderator of the session Introducing the panelists Lt. Gen Vinod Khandare and Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar.
Dr Nanda Kishor started the session by giving an insight on the topic that was to be discussed and spoke about how the three c’s (confidence, caution, curtsy ) play an important role in India’s relevance on the Global scale. He then asked Ambassador Ashok Sajjanhar to talk about the topic.
The Ambassador spoke about how India’s capacity has grown and it’s voice is heard on the Global scale. He also said that we, as a country, need to change our mindset. He further spoke on how India is playing the role of Vishwa Mitra – friend to everyone. The G20 summit was a one of the most successful event that was hosted by India in 2023. The Ambassador concluded his statement by saying ‘India has become partner of choice’.
The moderator asked Lt. Gen Vinod Khandare to give his view on the topic. The Lt. Gen began by taking about India’s role on the Hamas-Israel and the Russia -Ukraine war. He spoke on how India’s development is based on the national interest and not pressure politics. He says that India is clear that Terrorism is not acceptable in any circumstances. He further says that it is important to be clear on what stance the country takes for its development. He then went on to say that India must keep in mind that China has made it clear that it’s idea of Global dominance. It is also the small nation mentality to take advantage of the largest nations.
The last phase of the session was a Q and A session with a couple of questions from the audience and the panelists giving them a wise answers. The session ended with Mr Shriraj Gudi felicitating the panelists and giving each a momento.