New Delhi, Apr 16: Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW), University of Delhi, inaugurated the International Youth Conclave 2026 in collaboration with the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA). The conclave, themed “Indian Foreign Policy in a Transforming World Order: Balancing Security, Development, and Global Leadership,” brings together scholars, policy practitioners, and undergraduate students from across India to deliberate on pressing issues in international relations.
The initiative aligns wtih IPCW’s commitment to promote informed dialogue on contemporary global dynamics and strengthening students’ understanding of the evolving world order.
The conclave is organised under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ICWA, aimed at promoting world affairs literacy, enhancing awareness of foreign policy, and encouraging m eaningful youth engagement. Aligned with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the inaugural session highlighted the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family) as a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy approach.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, Former Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party, was joined by Ms. Himani Pant, Research Fellow at ICWA. The programme was led by Principal Prof. Poonam Kumria, who emphasised that the primary objective of the conclave is to empower young women through education that promotes critical thinking and informed engagement. She further highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia and policy institutions in preparing students for an increasingly interconnected world
In his address, Dr. Sahasrabuddhe elaborated on “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” as the philosophical foundation of India’s foreign policy, noting that India’s global goodwill is rooted in decades of principled leadership. He also acknowledged the contributions of former External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma Swaraj in strengthening India’s international outreach. The discussions further explored how globalization has simultaneously reinforced national identities, making it imperative for the youth to understand India’s strategic priorities and humanitarian commitments.
As part of the conclave experience, the distinguished guests were also taken on a visit to the College’s Museum and Archives, where they engaged with IPCW’s rich institutional legacy and historical collections.
The event has been made possible through the collaboration between IPCW and ICWA under ICWA’s Foreign Policy Awareness Grant, which supports student-led academic platforms. The conclave reflects IPCW’s continued commitment to nurturing globally aware, critically engaged young women prepared to contribute meaningfully to public life and international discourse.
