–Chandigarh, July 24:
The Saptasindhu Forum, in collaboration with the Nivedita Trust, organised the Saptasindhu Youth Conclave 2025. The conclave brought together eminent thought leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and over 160 distinguished delegates from across Punjab to engage with youth on themes of innovation, entrepreneurship, heritage, and leadership.
Founder of the Saptasindhu Forum, Dr. Varinder Garg, opened the event by outlining the objectives and vision of the Saptasindhu campaign, aimed at reconnecting youth with their heritage while equipping them for global challenges. The event commenced with a welcome address by Kalyani Singh, followed by guest introductions by Dr. Pavitra Ranawat and Ms. Monika Jindal.
Shri Shaurya Doval, renowned economist, strategist, and Director of the India Foundation, was the Chief Guest for the event. He enlightend the delegates with the comprehensive facts of global, national and state economies. He urged the youth to evolve with emerging technologies and embrace innovation and entrepreneurship as the foundation for a sustainable and self-reliant future.
Shri Pradeep Joshi, eminent thinker and social activist, served as the Keynote Speaker. In his address, he praised the experimental spirit of Punjabi youth but emphasized the need for greater consistency, creativity, and commitment to ensure long-term dignity and prosperity for future generations.
Guests of Honour included Shri Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi (IAS Retd.), Maj. Gen. Harpal Singh (Retd.), Lt. Gen. J.S. Nanda, and Ms. Tania Sodhi, Member of Legislative Assembly, Moncton, Canada.
Maj. Gen. Harpal Singh motivated youth to channel their potential into entrepreneurship, while Shri Kalsi traced the 10,000-year journey of the Saptasindhu Civilization to modern-day Punjab, offering both historical insights and contemporary relevance. Lt. Gen. Nanda applauded the success stories of young entrepreneurs, and Ms. Sodhi, reflecting on her journey abroad, credited her cultural roots for her achievements.
A major highlight of the conclave was the participation of 12 successful entrepreneurs from Punjab and the tricity region, who shared their journeys, challenges, and strategies for success. Notable speakers included Mrinal Tayal, Karan Shandilya, Piyush Bansal, Sakshi Verma, Dr. Harpreet Singh, Naina Bhandari, Bantoo Singh, Rana Ranjit Singh Dhaliwal, Anubhav Jain, Rajni Sharma, Harpreet Singh, and Muskan Inder Kaur.
The prestigious Saptasindhu Awards were conferred upon: Deepak Thakur, Captain, Indian Hockey Team, Umang Jindal, Manu Gupta, Tejinder Garg, Adv. Gagan Pradeep Singh Ball, Puneet Bhandari, Adv. Mohit Bhardwaj & Ekamjot Singh, Gurmeet Singh Nofal & Yadvinder Singh
The conclave concluded on a strong note, with participants and speakers alike emphasizing the need for regular forums of this nature to continue inspiring, connecting, and empowering the next generation of Indian leaders. The vote of thanks was delivered by Shri Vivek Thapar.
