India@100: Charting a Course for the Future at Pune's Public Policy Festival

Get ready, Pune! The city is buzzing with anticipation as the Pune Public Policy Festival, a truly significant event, kicks off. Hosted by the formidable Symbiosis School of Economics (SSE) in a thoughtful collaboration with the Symbiosis Centre for European Studies (SCES) and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), this isn't just another conference; it's a vibrant forum set to shape India's trajectory for decades to come.

From February 7th to 9th, the picturesque Lavale campus of Symbiosis International University (SIU) will transform into a melting pot of ideas, welcoming some of the brightest minds in the country and beyond. The overarching theme, "India@100: Reimagining Our Policy Canvas," speaks volumes about the ambition behind this festival. It’s about looking forward, envisioning the nation's centenary in 2047, and critically examining the policy frameworks that will get us there.

And what a lineup they have! Imagine being in the same space, or at least virtually connected, with luminaries like Dr. C Rangarajan, the former Governor of the RBI, whose insights are always invaluable. We're also anticipating the wisdom of Dr. S. Jaishankar, our External Affairs Minister, likely joining virtually, and the sharp economic perspectives of Dr. Arvind Subramanian, who previously served as Chief Economic Advisor. And of course, the ever-influential Dr. Montek Ahluwalia, former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, brings his wealth of experience to the table. It’s a veritable constellation of thought leaders, including Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, among many others.

What makes this festival particularly exciting, you know, is its comprehensive scope. The discussions aren't confined to a single domain; they sprawl across some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today. Think about it: geopolitics in a rapidly changing world, the existential challenge of climate change, the revolutionary (and sometimes scary) implications of artificial intelligence, sustainable economic development, and ensuring social welfare for all. These aren't just academic topics; they're the very fabric of our future.

But here’s the really brilliant part: it’s not just for the established policy wonks. This festival places a strong emphasis on engaging the youth. There’s a dedicated policy competition for students, which is such a fantastic way to harness fresh perspectives and innovative solutions from the next generation of leaders. It fosters a spirit of active participation, moving beyond passive listening to active problem-solving. This commitment to youth engagement truly sets the festival apart, ensuring that the dialogue is inclusive and forward-looking.

Ultimately, the Pune Public Policy Festival is more than just a series of talks. It’s a dynamic platform where academics, seasoned policymakers, budding students, and industry leaders converge. It’s about fostering dialogue, challenging conventional wisdom, and collaboratively charting a course for an India that is robust, equitable, and globally impactful as it approaches its hundredth year of independence. It's a reminder that meaningful change begins with meaningful conversation, right here in Pune.