India took over the year- long G20 presidency officially on 1st December 2022 which will continue till 30th November 2023. Outlining key themes and priorities of India’s presidency, PM Modi underlined that the G20 has to convey a strong message in favour of peace and harmony and stressed that without peace and security future generations will not be able to take advantage of economic growth or technological innovation.
As part of the G20, University Connect programme- engaging young minds Lecture Series was organized on 28th August, 2023 at Sikkim University in association with Ministry of External Affairs and research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS). The Chief Guest for the programme was Ambassador Preeti Saran, Former Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India. Ambassador Saran delivered a special lecture on India G20 priorities. In her lecture Smt. Saran highlighted on the relations that India shares with other nations and also on the possibilities of India emerging as a super power. Professor Chintamani Mohapatra, founder and Honourary Chairman, Kalinga Institute of Indo- Pacific Studies, Bhuvneshwar was also present as special guest and delivered a special lecture where he highlighted on the various initiatives that India has take to emerge as a global leader on various fronts. He also mentioned that India is being looked upon as a leader in the advocacy of hope, harmony and peace.
Various pre- event activities- debate, essay writing, quiz and poster making competitions were held in the University between 14th August 2023 and 18th August 2023. Students from Sikkim University, SRM University, Tadong College, Government Law College, Burtuk participated in the events. Prizes to the winners and participants were handed over at the end of the lecture series.
Vice- Chancellor Prof. Avinash Khare in his address mentioned that G20 will also be an opportunity to showcase India in all its glory and diversity as it scales new heights of excellence in every area ranging from economic progress to science and technology, space, innovation and start- ups.
