New Delhi, India - UPF-India in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS) of the Atma Ram Santan Dharma College (ARSD-College) of the University of Delhi observed the UN World Interfaith Harmony Week on February 3 by organizing an Inter-Collegiate Debate Competition on the theme of “The Need of Interfaith Harmony for Peace in the 21st Century.”
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The program was inaugurated by the Principal of the ARSD College, Dr. Sandeep K. Sharma, by a lighting a lamp and delivering the opening remarks. Two students each from a total of ten colleges under Delhi University and Jamia Millia Islamia (National Islamic University) took part in the debate. Although most of the students were in full agreement about the great message of the topic and expressed support for promoting harmony among the different faiths, they found ways to debate about the topic with great enthusiasm. It was very interesting to hear some of the views against the topic. Out of the 20 students participating, Mr. Utsav and the team from the National Islamic University were recognized as the winner, and Mr. Rajiv and Mr. Darpan from ARSD College became the runners up. The winning team was awarded a trophy, gold medal, and three thousand rupees (Rs. 3000); the runners up were awarded two thousand rupees (Rs. 2000).
Later in the program Amb. Krishna V. Rajan gave keynote remarks, and Mr. Krishna Adhikari highlighted the day by presenting the UPF Founder’s vision for interfaith harmony. The program concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks by Dr. A. Sudha Devi, NSS Coordinator of the ARSD College of Delhi University.
For more information about World Interfaith Harmony Week, click here.