Emerging World of 21st Century Role and Impact of India in the World Affairs
| Meeting Date | 20 Apr 2024 |
| Meeting Time | 18:30:00 |
| Location | Poona Club |
| Meeting Type | Regular |
| Meeting Topic | Emerging World of 21st Century Role and Impact of India in the World Affairs |
| Meeting Agenda | |
| Chief Guest | Lt. Gen. (Dr.) D. B. Shekatkar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd) |
| Club Members Present | 40 |
| Minutes of Meeting | India shining Our distinguished guest speaker, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) D. B. Shekatkar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd), gave an inspiring talk on India’s role and impact in world affairs in the 21st century. “The whole world’s perception of India is changing,” he said, citing examples of events that have put India front and centre on the world stage, such as the mass production of vaccines during the Covid crisis, strong and steady economic growth, increasing foreign investments, and widespread empowerment of women. He added that India’s “intellectual capital” was being recognised around the world and many countries were eager to collaborate with India. One such collaboration is the proposed India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor, which will bolster economic development by fostering connectivity and economic integration between Asia, the Gulf countries and Europe. Lt. Gen. Shekatkar said that another matter of pride is that Indian armed forces are currently on peacekeeping duties in 48 countries — ranging from South America to Africa and the Middle East — and there are growing requests from governments around the world for assistance from the Indian Army. “India’s vibrant democracy will remain alive and will continue to thrive,” he concluded. “India is now being taken seriously.” President’s Announcements • In his salute to the Spirit of Giving, President Ajay Chitnis acknowledged a generous donation of Rs. 2,50,000 from Rtn. Giri Sakhrani. • A Maths Lab had been installed at Gramprabodhini School in Salumbre village. The lab has games, puzzles and other materials to boost students’ interest in maths, and provides a collaborative space for students and teachers, aids understanding, practice, and study skills. • A Summer Camp was held at Jagruti School for Blind Girls in Alandi. RCPC has supported Jagruti School’s Summer Camp RYLA for over 20 years and the camp is the highlight of the school year for students. The inauguration was attended by Rtn. Anil Bora, Rtn. Shashi Saxena, and others. Chief Guest Viraj Joshi, renowned Hindustani Classical musician and grandson of Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, captivated the audience with his singing and speech. Rtn. Anil Bora presented two “Alexa” Talking Dolls to the school, which are a big hit with the students. The Inner Wheel Club of Pune Central conducted a Fun Fair for the students, which was enjoyed by all. Celebrations We offered birthday greetings to Rtn. Bal Agarwal, R’Ann Archana Biyani, Rtn. Pradip Keluskar, R’Ann Neena Malhotra and Rtn. Pankaj Mehrotra Rtn. Shireesh and R’Ann Mukta Nadkar celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with RCPC members and generously sponsored the Fellowship drinks and dinner. |