Introduction-

On 12 January 2026, on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti and National Youth Day, the Social Reforms and Research Organisation (SRRO) organised the 1st Global Youth Summit under the 2nd Bharatiya Youth Parliament (BYP 2026) at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi.

The Summit brought together young students, policy thinkers, legal experts, diplomats and strategic affairs professionals for a meaningful discussion on the theme:

“Role of India in Global Peace”

At a time when the world is facing conflict, uncertainty and changing global relationships, the Global Youth Summit created a platform for young Indians to understand India’s responsibilities, strengths and role in building peace across the world.

The programme was designed not only as a discussion forum, but as an opportunity for youth to engage with serious questions of diplomacy, international law, strategic relations, peacebuilding and India’s civilisational values.

A Platform for Youth Voices

Around 160 students from International Relations and International Languages participated in the Summit. Ten participants were selected through a draw of lots to present their views before the distinguished guests and audience, while other participants submitted their speeches for publication and documentation.

The Summit encouraged youth to think beyond textbooks and examine questions such as:

• What role can India play in global peace?
• How can diplomacy, law and strategic strength work together?
• What does India’s civilisational philosophy contribute to the modern world?
• How can young people prepare themselves for leadership in international affairs?

The event reflected the core vision of Bharatiya Youth Parliament: creating platforms where youth learn through participation, dialogue, leadership and responsibility.

Distinguished Guests and Expert Perspectives

The Summit was enriched by the presence of eminent speakers from diplomacy, public policy, law and strategic affairs.

H.E. Erick Jean-Marie Zinsou

Ambassador of the Republic of Benin to the Republic of India

The Ambassador shared an international perspective on India’s growing role in global affairs. His presence brought an important Global South viewpoint to the discussion. He highlighted the importance of nations that can speak for peace, cooperation and mutual respect without being driven only by strategic interests. His address encouraged young participants to understand India’s diplomatic role with seriousness and responsibility.

Apurv Kumar Mishra

Consultant, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India

Apurv Kumar Mishra spoke about the connection between policy, public service and individual responsibility.His work in public policy, research and social service reflects the belief that nation-building does not happen only through institutions. It also happens through the choices individuals make every day. He encouraged youth to recognise that their contribution to peace can begin through service, social responsibility, leadership and constructive action.

Adv. (Dr.) Shilpa Bagade

Advocate on Record, Supreme Court of India | Doctorate in International Law

Adv. (Dr.) Shilpa Bagade brought an important legal perspective to the Summit.

She explained that global peace requires more than good intentions. It requires legal systems, international agreements, human rights frameworks and respect for the rule of law. Her address helped participants understand how international law plays a major role in preventing conflict, protecting human dignity and strengthening cooperation among nations.

Prateek Kapil

Research Fellow | Geopolitical and Strategic Affairs Expert

Prateek Kapil discussed the realities of international relations and strategic affairs.

He emphasised that peace requires both values and practical understanding. India’s position in the world must be guided by national interest, strategic autonomy, diplomatic engagement and long-term planning. His session encouraged young participants to study global politics with clarity, depth and responsibility.

Youth Speech That Reflected the Theme

One of the most meaningful aspects of the Summit was the participation of young speakers who shared their perspectives on peace, strength and India’s role in the global community.

Through their speeches, participants explored the idea that lasting peace requires moral values, dialogue, justice and compassion, along with the ability of a nation to protect its people and national interests.

The youth speakers referred to India’s intellectual and historical traditions, including the thoughts of Chanakya, the leadership of Emperor Ashoka, India’s contribution to peacekeeping missions and its humanitarian support for nations across the world.

Key Learnings from the Global Youth Summit

The Global Youth Summit highlighted several important ideas:

India’s Civilisational Values Remain Relevant

Concepts such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Ahinsa, Panchsheel and Dharmavijaya continue to offer meaningful guidance in a world facing conflict and division.

Peace Requires Strength and Responsibility

The discussions highlighted that peace is not weakness. A peaceful nation must also have the strength, preparedness and strategic clarity to protect its people and interests.

International Law is Essential for Peace

Legal systems, treaties, human rights principles and international cooperation form the foundation of lasting peace.

Strategic Autonomy Matters

India’s ability to maintain dialogue with different global powers while protecting its national interests remains one of its most important diplomatic strengths.

Youth Are Ready to Lead

The Summit showed that young people are capable of engaging with complex global issues when they are given opportunities to learn, speak and participate.

SRRO’s Commitment to Youth Leadership

Through initiatives such as Bharatiya Youth Parliament and the Global Youth Summit, SRRO aims to create meaningful opportunities for youth participation in democratic awareness, leadership development, public policy discussions and nation-building.

The Global Youth Summit was not only an event. It was a learning space where youth met experts, shared ideas and understood the responsibilities of becoming future leaders.

SRRO believes that India’s youth are not merely the leaders of tomorrow. They are active contributors to society today.

Moving Forward

The 1st Global Youth Summit marked an important beginning.

It created a space where diplomacy met youth leadership, where law met public policy, where India’s civilisational values met contemporary global challenges, and where young voices were heard with seriousness and respect.

As India continues to play an important role in global affairs, it is essential that young people are equipped with knowledge, confidence, values and leadership skills.

The Global Youth Summit under Bharatiya Youth Parliament is a step towards building that future.

A future where India’s youth participate in global conversations, contribute to peace and carry forward the vision of a responsible, strong and compassionate India.

Organised by: Social Reforms and Research Organisation (SRRO)

Under the initiative of: Bharatiya Youth Parliament

“SRRO works as an implementation partner for Corporate social responsibility(CSR )and social impact projects”