In a compelling convergence of intellect, leadership, and vision, the Charles Walters Council for Innovation & Research, in collaboration with The Association of Indian Bureaucrats, hosted the highly anticipated India Intellectual Conclave and MIGA Gabfest 2025 (Theme: Conceptualising Viksit Bharat by 2047) on April 20, 2025, at the iconic India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
This high-level gathering united an inspiring mix of senior bureaucrats, thought leaders, policy experts, academics, innovators, and emerging youth leaders from across the country. The conclave served as a fertile ground for critical conversations, bold ideas, and forward-thinking solutions across governance, education, public administration, and youth engagement.
In his keynote address, Abhishek Pandey, Founding Director of CWSIR, underscored the importance of a synergistic ecosystem where policy, research, and social innovation converge to sculpt India’s future. He called upon institutions and changemakers to use such platforms to incubate practical and visionary approaches for national progress.
Among the thought-provoking sessions hosted during the event were:
• Bureaucracy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
• Youth & Policy: Creating Collaborative Pathways
• Empowering Women Innovators: India @2047
• Grassroots Governance and Innovation Models
The MIGA Gabfest 2025 segment added a distinctive vibrancy, amplifying the voices of rural innovators, student leaders, and young policy thinkers—infusing the conclave with grounded perspectives and youthful energy. A series of impactful whitepapers and actionable policy suggestions were tabled during the forum.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Beacon of Intellect Awards 2025, recognizing pioneers in public service, innovation, and academic excellence.
The event was graced by an esteemed lineup of national and international dignitaries, including:
Justice ML Mehta, Justice Gautam Chourdiya, Justice Lokpal Singh, Justice Rajesh Tandon, Amb. Dr. Deepak Vohra, Princess Adrija Manjari Singh, Vice Admiral Puneet Kumar Bahl, Lt Gen Anil Malik, IAS Rajeev Sharma, IES Tanveer Khan, IRS Dr. S. Pandian, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Mr. Lisa Nkosinathi Mangcu (Former Deputy Minister, South Africa), Dr. Abhishek Verma, H.E. Lalatiana Accouche (High Commissioner, Seychelles), H.E. Samia Ishrat Ronee (Bangladesh High Commission), IAS RK Bhatnagar, Dr. AP Muhammed Azhari Al Kandi, Md Sajid Ali Gy, Prof. Afrozul Haq, Dr. Alok Gupta (NIOS), Mrs. Phumeza (South African Politician), Adv. Astha Mishra, Agbani Doris Briggs, Athlete Shivani Gupta, Komal Sharma, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Prof. MM Goel, Prof. MN Hoda, Prof. M. Moni, Dr. Dewakar Goel, Dr. PK Rajput, Dr. Kabir KV, Dr. Khaled Al Balooshi, and Dr. Vic Gaffney.
Notably, previous editions of the India Intellectual Conclave were also graced by prominent names including Justice ZU Khan, IPS SBS Tyagi, Vice Chancellor Rakesh Kumar Khandal, Chancellor SN Pandey, Orhan Galjus, VC Devendra Sharma, VC RK Suri, and VC Atul Nasa.
This year’s conclave reaffirmed the growing importance of inclusive, research-driven, and interdisciplinary dialogue in shaping the roadmap toward a developed India by 2047.
