New Delhi: Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, participated in a panel discussion at Delhi University’s Lit Fest 2025, where he reflected on the university’s rich legacy and its contributions to academia and society. The panel also featured acclaimed author Lakshmi Puri, economist Sanjeev Sanyal, and legal expert Raian Karanjawala.
Puri underscored the transformative journey of Delhi University (DU), emphasizing how its faculty, students, and administrators have helped shape it into one of India’s leading educational institutions. He highlighted the need for universities to evolve with advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning while maintaining their foundational academic strengths.
A key moment in the discussion was the launch of “Delhi University – Celebrating 100 Glorious Years”, an anthology edited by Puri. The book, featuring essays from eminent alumni and scholars, captures DU’s vibrant culture and profound impact over the past century. It also includes a foreword by legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, who shares his reflections on the university’s enduring influence. Puri revealed that proceeds from the book’s sales would support charitable causes, urging alumni to contribute.
Lakshmi Puri, during her address, highlighted how Delhi University—particularly Lady Ram College—became a symbol of gender empowerment. She spoke about how DU challenged patriarchal norms and fostered independent thinking among women, drawing parallels to the global second-wave feminist movement of the 1970s.
Sanjeev Sanyal provided a historical perspective on DU’s establishment in 1922 and its rise as a premier institution, while Raian Karanjawala recounted his experiences at SRCC, reflecting on the politically charged atmosphere during the Emergency period. He spoke about the role of student activism in shaping DU’s identity as a hub for intellectual and political discourse.
The event, held at Ram College of Commerce, saw enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and literature enthusiasts. The interactive session allowed students to engage with the panelists on topics ranging from academic excellence to policy reforms and the preservation of DU’s intellectual legacy.
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