In collaboration with the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), Ministry of External Affairs, India Foundation hosted the Sushma Swaraj Lectures 2024 on 13–14 November. This two-day event, themed Introduction to India, brought together 39 diplomats representing 30 missions to explore India’s historical, political, economic, cultural, and strategic dimensions through insightful lectures delivered by eminent speakers.
Shri Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, delivered the inaugural address. His address set the tone by emphasising India’s commitment to fostering meaningful global partnerships and showcasing the nation’s multifaceted heritage.
In the first session, Dr Swadesh Singh, an Assistant Professor at Delhi University, delved into India’s rich historical legacy. His lecture offered a comprehensive understanding of India’s historical journey and cultural evolution, providing the diplomatic audience with invaluable insights into the foundations of Indian society. After that, Dr A. Suryaprakash, Vice-Chairman of the Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library Executive Council, explored India’s political journey from 1947 to 2014. Following this, journalist Shri Rahul Shivshankar examined India’s polity post-2014, highlighting fundamental political shifts, policy reforms, and governance strategies that have reshaped the nation. In the final session, Shri Nand Kumarum, CEO of the National E-Governance Division (NeGD), spoke on Digital Public Infrastructure. He illustrated India’s leadership in building inclusive digital ecosystems and transforming governance through innovative technological applications.
The second day began with Dr. Shamika Ravi, a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, giving the participants a deep dive into India’s economic trajectory. Her session explored recent reforms, resilience amid global challenges, and India’s growth strategies in a rapidly evolving global landscape. The session on culture was led by Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), who illuminated the richness and diversity of Indian culture, spanning ancient traditions to contemporary artistic expressions. Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, addressed the theme of Indian foreign policy. She detailed India’s evolving role in global affairs, strategic partnerships, and commitment to multilateralism.
The series concluded with an address by Dr. Ram Madhav, President of the India Foundation. His remarks outlined India’s global vision and aspirations for a more equitable and multipolar world order. His remarks combined the themes discussed over the two days and reinforced India’s commitment to fostering global understanding.
The Sushma Swaraj Lectures 2024 gave diplomats a holistic understanding of India’s historical, cultural, and geopolitical identity, strengthening the country’s diplomatic engagement.
