New Delhi, July 7: 10th Subir Raha Memorial Lecture was organized by UNGCNI on the theme “Climate Conversation and the secret of prosperity in 21st Century” at India habitat Centre, New Delhi. Dr. Joyashree Roy, Bangabandhu Chair Professor, Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand and Professor of Economic, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, was the keynote speaker. She delved on the role of diverse stakeholders across the sectors who can make meaningful contribution towards climate action.
In her keynote address Dr. Roy said “Crises from Climate induced changes will be unfair, larger, deeper and far-reaching than that of the financial meltdown of 2008 and the global pandemic of 2020. It can be clearly predicted that winners will be those who invest in climate-smart ideas and business models. With the increasing demand for sustainable development, environment services are likely to be the key drivers of business affluence. Early movers to emerge as leaders in the prosperous new climate economy needs to recognize standard assets, risks to critical infrastructure, new frontiers in end-use granular technology and invest in people and social capital involving change architects.”
Dr. Alka Mittal, CMD ONGC and President, GCNI paid rich tributes to Shri Subir Raha and called him a visionary leader for the business and an advocate of comprehensive human welfare that included material well-being. Dr Mittal said, “The theme of “Climate Conversation and the secret of prosperity in the 21st Century” for this year’s Late Subir Raha Memorial Lecture is very important as the economic benefits of climate action are greater than ever and the costs of inaction are increasing. If we don’t take action today, the damage could be even more lasting than the devastating effects of COVID-19 pandemic. To address climate change, it is critical to act with the same determination and craft climate policies that can make a difference.”
Mr. Ranjan Kumar Mohapatra, Director HR, IOCL and Chair, Administration Committee GCNI delivered opening remarks and welcomed all the respected speakers and guests attended the 10th Subir Raha Memorial Lecture. The lecture is our tribute to the great achievements of Late Shri Subir Raha, Founder President of UN GCNI and Former CMD of ONGC. Today, GCNI is recognized globally in top 10 local networks, and we owe that to Mr. Raha’s determination and passion.”
People from diverse institutions/sectors like PSUs, Corporate, Civil Society Organizations, UN Agencies and Business Schools including students from various Universities and Institutions attended the event.
The highlights of the discussions and the recommendations for corporates to achieve Climate Conversation and the secret of prosperity in 21st Century are:
- Stakeholders from diverse sectors and institutions like PSUs, Corporate, Civil Society Organizations, UN Agencies can be the role model to achieve Climate Conversation and the secret of prosperity in 21st Century.
- If we as a responsible business don’t take action today, the damage could be even more lasting than the devastating effects of COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
- Govt and private sector should work together to achieve universal climate goals.
- All the sector needs to come together with collective action to address climate challenges and bring policy change in the nation.
