UditVani, Jamshedpur : XLRI Jamshedpur, hosted the 12th Annual Dr. Verghese Kurien Memorial Oration at the Tata Auditorium, focusing on the theme “Ecological Security for a Viksit Bharat.”
The event, organized by the Fr. Arrupe Centre for Ecology and Sustainability (FACES), featured Dr. Vinod B. Mathur, Former Chairperson of the National Biodiversity Authority of India and Former Director of the Wildlife Institute of India, who delivered an insightful address on sustainable development and ecological security.
The program began with a soulful prayer by the XLRI Choir, followed by the ceremonial lamp lighting, marking the commencement of the event.
The annual Dr. Verghese Kurien Memorial Oration is one of FACES’ flagship initiatives, honoring the visionary leader behind India’s White Revolution.
Dr. Kurien’s legacy of rural empowerment and social transformation continues to inspire generations, and the oration provides a platform for thought leaders to share ideas that can shape a sustainable future.
Dr. Tata L. Raghu Ram, Chairperson of FACES, presented the centre’s Annual Report, highlighting key initiatives in sustainability, climate action, and social responsibility.
He underscored the importance of harmonizing development with environmental protection and detailed XLRI’s ongoing research projects in areas such as globalization, self-care, climate change, and CSR.
Dr. Raghu Ram also highlighted collaborations with institutions like IUCN and ICSSR, the launch of a new degree program on sustainable leadership, rural immersion projects, and faculty contributions to ESG policy and national standards.
Dr. (Fr.) Sebastian George, S.J., Director of XLRI Jamshedpur, welcomed the audience and reaffirmed XLRI’s long-standing commitment to sustainable development, social justice, and ethical leadership.
In his keynote, Dr. Vinod B. Mathur emphasized that India’s journey toward becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 hinges on balancing ecological and economic security. He advocated for nature-positive growth strategies that create jobs, strengthen community resilience, and protect livelihoods.
Highlighting green finance, renewable energy, and nature-based solutions, Dr. Mathur called for inclusive development where environmental sustainability is integral to economic progress.
He concluded by stressing that India’s long-term prosperity is inseparable from ecological security—a vision resonating with XLRI’s ethos of working for the greater good.
The session featured an interactive Q&A, engaging students and faculty in discussions on sustainability challenges and practical solutions.
Sanjay Patro, Dean (Academics), proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to Dr. Mathur and all participants. The program concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a fellowship interaction.
The annual oration continues to reflect XLRI’s commitment to integrating academic excellence with ethical values and societal responsibility, perpetuating a legacy of excellence, integrity, and nation building.
