Deccan Education Society Mumbai Campus Hosts High-Level Round Table on India–US Strategic and Economic Partnership

April 4, 2025 | Mumbai — Deccan Education Society’s Kirti M. Doongursee College (Autonomous), in collaboration with NMITD and JSKBS, hosted a  Round Table on “Pathways to a Strategic Reciprocity and Economic Partnership” at the DES Mumbai Campus.

The event brought together diplomats, scholars, and policymakers to deliberate on the evolving contours of Indo–US relations. The program was inaugurated with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and a warm welcome .Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Elizabeth Orlando, Economic and Political Officer at the US Consulate General, Mumbai, emphasized shared democratic values, economic ties, and the importance of people-to-people connections. Her address set a diplomatic tone and underlined the need for continued bilateral cooperation.

In the first session, Prof. Arawind Yelery (JNU) provided a sharp analysis of India’s geopolitical balancing act between the US and China. Dr. Sameer Patil (ORF) discussed deepening defence and strategic cooperation, while Mr. Saurabh Shah, Who is a Member of National Executive Council of the Indo – American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), highlighted corporate diplomacy and business synergies. Dr. Harinder Sekhon, the session chair, reflected on the discussions, stressing multi-sectoral reciprocity.

The second session focused on emerging challenges and prospects. Prof. Mandar Chaudhari explored the possible return of Trump and its impact on bilateral ties. Dr. V. Rangraj and Prof. Harshad Bhosale, emphasized the role of US states in sub-national diplomacy. Student speaker Mr. Ashutosh Patki – MA Political Science student and Prof. Janhavi Kolte from Kirti College addressed youth-led innovation and future areas of cooperation.

The valedictory address was given by Dr. Harinder Sekhon. Mr. Sunil Mehta Vice President of Deccan Education Society Presided over the inauguration session. Trustee Adv.Neel Helekar, Council Member, MB Kenkare also graced the occasion. All the dignitaries were welcomed by Heads of three institutions. Incharge Principal of Kirti College Prof. Harshad Bhosale, Incharge Director of NMITD Dr. Rasika Mallya and Incharge Director of JSKB, Dr. Giribala Devasthale.