Conclave on Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam – Civilisational Dialogue was organised jointly by the Centre for Studies in International Relations (CSIR), Jamia Millia Islamia, and MAKAIS, Kolkata. The event took place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and included an inaugural session followed by three plenary discussions.In a special address, Sunil Ambekar, Akhil Bhartiya Prachar Pramukh of RSS, pointed out that while AI and ICT have connected the world, humanity still faces violence, conflict, and ecological crises. He underlined India’s long-standing ethos of unity, peace, and coexistence, developed over millennia without dependence on modern technology. He urged the ethical application of power in international affairs, guided by values, empathy, and cultural understanding.During the opening session, Prof Mazhar Asif, vice chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, remarked that Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam embodies India’s civilisational strengths, grounded in knowledge, spirituality, and inclusiveness. He added that the Indian tradition promotes inquiry, dialogue, and coexistence, rather than rigid adherence to fixed beliefs.In his inaugural address, Prof Sachin Chaturvedi, vice chancellor of Nalanda University, Bihar, described Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam as more than a philosophical concept. He highlighted its relevance in addressing modern global challenges and called for moving beyond narrow economic measures to focus on sustainable production, resilient infrastructure, and broader indicators of human well-being.The plenary sessions examined themes such as cultural connections, international security, and the Bhartiya idea of peace. Participants from India and abroad discussed “cultural India” (Vrihad Bharat) as extending beyond physical borders, stressing the country’s diversity and the need to revive cultural values that were historically suppressed.Debates on global security covered state strategies, governance challenges, terrorism, and climate issues, all of which affect worldwide stability. The sessions provided participants with detailed insights and practical perspectives on applying India’s civilisational principles to current global concerns.
