In India and the world over, liberal discourses and institutions are currently under pressure. As populist discourses underpinned with the politics of the ‘the other’ rise in the west, clashing identities are galvanising fringe groups in our part of the world. Further, challenges to the liberal fabric of our democracies stand accentuated by the politicisation of our institutions and the media undergoing a credibility crisis. In these divisive times then, the youth may present the much needed solace – as younger generations the world over are well documented to be more sympathetic to ‘the other’, more liberal in their worldview, and are frankly much more open to having a conversation.
With this promise of the youth in mind, the Young Thinkers’ Conference – jointly organised by ORF and the British Deputy High Commission in Mumbai, seeks to deliberate on the role of the youth in dampening illiberal tendencies. Across four panel discussions, distinguished panellists would address challenges and opportunities in the realms of Social Media & Political Polarisation, New Protectionism, Youth & Civic Engagement, and Artists & Democratic Norms.
For the conference’s plenary session, we are excited to host Smt. Smriti Z. Irani, Union Cabinet Minister of Textiles, Government of India. Further, we have the privilege of hosting the Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri. Devendra Fadnavis for a special ‘in-conversation’ session. Some of the other confirmed panellists include Smt. Charu Pragya (National Incharge, Legal and Co-Incharge Uttar Pradesh - BJP Youth Wing ), Shri. Parmesh Shahani (Head, Godrej India Culture Lab), Shri. Ajit Ranade (Chief Economist, Aditya Birla group) and Shri. Gautam Chikermane (Vice president, ORF)
The conference is slated for October 23, 2018 at the Oberoi-Trident, BKC from 10am to 5pm. The entry to the conference is not subjected to a registration fee, but to timely registrations. Students and Young Professionals are especially encouraged to attend. Those interested are expected to fill out the registration form.
Interested candidates are to wait for a confirmation mail once they register. Only people who have received the confirmation mail will be permitted to attend.
The timing of this event is from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
