Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University hosted Voices of Bharat, a Chhatra Sansad-led leadership dialogue at the university campus, Gandhinagar, on Monday. Held at the university’s seminar hall, the event brought together students, faculty and institutional heads to reflect on governance, ethics and nation-building. Some 150 participants from across all institutes of the university remained present at the event.
The program began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and a Saraswati Vandana. Following this, Dr. Hiren Kadikar, the Registrar of Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University, delivered welcome remarks and provided a brief overview of the university’s focus on innovation, experiential learning, and value-based education..Mr Aadit Sheth, member of Chhatra Sansad spoke about the importance of youth participation in democratic processes while Dr. Hiren Kadikar,Registrar,Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University introduced participants
The highlight of the event was the keynote by Anil Swarup, former IAS officer, Former-Coal Secretary to the Government of India, author and founder of Nexus of Good, who shared first-hand perspectives from public administration and his post-retirement work in social transformation.
“Everyone talks about 2047, but very few define what they will do today. Shouting slogans or blaming systems changes nothing unless you take personal responsibility. Nation-building begins with building yourself first, if you don’t succeed individually, the country cannot succeed. Real leadership is about facing facts, questioning authority when required, and turning ideas into action that is practical, acceptable and sustainable. We sitting in Delhi cannot build the country anymore; the responsibility now lies with you,” said Shri Anil Swarup during the keynote address.
An engaging Q&A session saw students and faculty raise questions on ethical leadership, civic responsibility and the role of young citizens in shaping India’s future.
Speaking about the event, Mr Adi Rishabh Jain, Vice President, Swarrnim Startup and Innovation University, said, “The Voices of Bharat dialogue reflects the university’s commitment to shaping socially responsible leaders. At Swarrnim, we believe education must extend beyond classrooms to build ethical, self-aware and action-oriented citizens. Interactions with experienced public leaders help our students connect ambition with accountability and translate ideas of nation-building into meaningful action.”