Prayagraj 23-02-2025 – The India Foundation, in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, hosted the ‘Kumbh Global Summit on Development and Sustainability’ on 21st February, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This significant event brought together a diverse group of leaders, scholars, thinkers, and experts from various fields to address crucial issues such as net-zero development, energy-neutral societies, climate change, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and solutions like Life Style for Environment (LiFE).
The Pre-Inaugural Special Session on “Integrating Dharma and Governance: A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Development” at the Kumbh Global Summit featured a compelling discussion on the intersection of ancient wisdom and contemporary governance. The session, chaired by Major General Dhruv C. Katoch, Director of India Foundation, explored how the principles of Dharma can be applied to modern governance to create a more sustainable and harmonious future.
Keynote speakers for the session included Justice UU Lalit, Former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, and Dr. Shaunaka Rishi Das, Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS). Justice Lalit shared his insights on the role of ethical governance, emphasizing the need for a strong moral framework in policymaking to ensure justice and equity for all. Dr. Shaunaka Rishi Das highlighted the timeless relevance of Dharma in shaping responsible leadership, stressing its potential in guiding sustainable development through its values of balance, harmony, and respect for nature.
The session provided a thought-provoking platform for integrating spiritual and ethical perspectives into the broader discourse on governance, offering valuable insights into how ancient teachings could inspire modern solutions to the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
The Global Summit began with a welcome address by Shri Suresh Prabhu, Former Union Cabinet Minister, Government of India. His speech laid the foundation for thought-provoking discussions on global challenges and emerging opportunities. Dr. Ram Madhav, President of the India Foundation, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping a sustainable future. A keynote speaker at the event was Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, who focused on the vital role that cultural heritage and tourism play in driving economic growth.
Dr. Kanhu Charan Pattnayak, who addressed the session, focused on the increasing climate risks facing various sectors. He emphasized the role of carbon offsetting through terrestrial and marine restoration efforts, sharing his experience working on similar projects in Africa. Dr. Pattnayak expressed his intent to implement these initiatives in India as well. Dr. Rakesh Tiwari, during his session, explored how sustainability and environmental consciousness were understood and practiced in the period leading up to the Mahakumbh in 1881. Drawing historical parallels, he discussed traditional practices, cultural values, and societal norms around resource management and environmental stewardship, contrasting them with modern-day approaches.
The summit included a range of thematic sessions, ministerial addresses, keynote speeches, exhibitions, and panel discussions led by renowned speakers. These sessions offered an in-depth exploration of key topics while fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue. Additionally, cultural programs celebrated India’s rich heritage, featuring performances, exhibitions, and demonstrations.
A primary goal of the summit was to generate actionable insights and recommendations for addressing global sustainability challenges. These outcomes were shared with stakeholders, including policymakers, academic institutions, and civil society organizations, both at local and global levels. The summit aimed to integrate ancient wisdom with contemporary knowledge, contributing to the global discourse on climate change and advancing sustainable development grounded in cultural heritage.
The ‘Kumbh Global Summit on Development and Sustainability’ served as a vital platform for fostering meaningful discussions and collaborations, with the ultimate aim of addressing the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
Statement of Shri Narendra Modi and Shri Yogi Adityanath:
