A guest lecture titled "Ukraine Conflict: The Tragedy of Offensive Realism" was presented by Prashant Singh, a Research Scholar at JNU, on 16 October 2023. Singh analyzed the Ukraine- Russia conflict through the lens of offensive realism theory, exploring geopolitical motives, strategic miscalculations, and consequences of aggressive foreign policies. His presentation critically evaluated the realpolitik dynamics influencing conflict escalation and international responses, highlighting the complex interplay of power politics and security dilemmas.
A dynamic session titled "From Battlefield to Boardroom" was held on 9 August 2023 featuring Maj Gen (Dr) Yash Mor, Director of Yash Mor Academy and CEO of Save the Himalayas Foundation. Gen Mor shared valuable insights from his military experiences, emphasizing leadership lessons transferable to the corporate world. Moderated by Dr. Manjari Singh and chaired by Prof. (Dr.) Nagalaxmi Raman, the session addressed strategic thinking, adaptability, and leadership effectiveness, bridging military and corporate sectors.
A guest lecture on "Scope of International Relations in Industries and Corporate Sectors" occurred on 20 July 2023, featuring Mr. Arpit Rajain, CEO of WoRisGo. Mr. Rajain explored how international relations expertise benefits corporate decision-making, risk management, and global strategic planning. He emphasized that industries increasingly rely on geopolitical insights to navigate international markets and mitigate risks. The lecture highlighted practical applications of diplomatic analysis, economic forecasting, and strategic thinking in contemporary corporate environments.
On 17 April 2023, Mr. Mimrah Ghafoor, Associate Fellow at South Asian Foresight Network, spoke on "Leveraging India-Maldives Ties in the Indo-Pacific Era." He examined how India and the Maldives navigate their strategic partnership within the evolving dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. Mr. Ghafoor addressed maritime security cooperation, economic connectivity, and shared geopolitical concerns. He emphasized the strategic importance of fostering stronger diplomatic and security collaborations to mutually benefit regional stability and prosperity.
On 9 March 2023, Dr. Gaurav Bhattarai from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, delivered a lecture titled "Navigating India-Nepal Ties amidst Dynamic Geopolitics." Dr. Bhattarai analyzed the complexities of the India-Nepal bilateral relationship within the broader geopolitical shifts affecting South Asia. Highlighting historical and contemporary diplomatic challenges, he discussed strategic dimensions influencing regional stability and cooperation. The session offered a nuanced perspective on managing diplomatic ties amidst regional and international geopolitical pressures impacting both nations.
On 24 February 2023, Asanga Abeyagoonasekera, Senior Fellow at The Millennium Project, Washington DC, delivered a lecture titled "India-Sri Lanka Relations: Emerging Trends and Future Trajectory." He discussed recent developments influencing bilateral ties, including economic cooperation, geopolitical rivalry, and regional stability. Abeyagoonasekera emphasized opportunities and challenges in the evolving relationship, focusing on strategic implications for both nations amid regional geopolitical shifts, economic crises, and changing international alignments.
On 10 January 2023, Ms. Elizabeth Threlkeld and Ms. Mahika Khosla from the Stimson Center, Washington D.C., presented a lecture titled "The Evolving Role of the U.S. in South Asia post the Withdrawal from Afghanistan." They assessed the strategic recalibration of U.S. policy in South Asia following its Afghanistan withdrawal, examining implications for regional security and diplomatic engagements. Their analysis provided insights into the shifting power dynamics, regional stability concerns, and evolving U.S. interests across South Asian nations.