GPF India Participates in National Seminar on Economic Development & Social Work – Atmanirbhar Bharat 6 December 2025 | India Habitat Centre, New Delhi

Experts and social leaders came together at India Habitat Centre to discuss National Economic Development and Social Responsibilities under the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Speech of Mr. Markandey Rai

(Founder, Global Peace Foundation India)

Respected dignitaries on the dais, distinguished guests, scholars, social workers, youth representatives, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great honour and privilege to be present here today and to address this esteemed gathering. I sincerely thank the organisers for inviting me to be part of this important seminar, which focuses on national development, social responsibility, and the collective vision of a self-reliant India—Atmanirbhar Bharat.

India today stands at a defining moment in history. We are a nation of immense potential, rich cultural heritage, and youthful energy. However, true national development is not measured only by economic indicators or infrastructure growth. It is measured by the strength of our social fabric, the inclusiveness of our progress, and the dignity with which every citizen lives.

At Global Peace Foundation India, we firmly believe that peace, development, and social harmony are deeply interconnected. Sustainable development cannot exist without peace, and peace cannot be sustained without justice, opportunity, and shared prosperity.

When we speak about Atmanirbhar Bharat, we must understand that self-reliance does not mean isolation. It means empowering communities, strengthening local capacities, and ensuring that growth reaches the grassroots. True self-reliance begins when women are empowered, youth are skilled, children are educated, and communities are united beyond divisions of caste, religion, and region.

Social workers and civil society organisations play a crucial role in this journey. Governments can create policies, but it is social workers who translate those policies into real impact on the ground. You are the bridge between vision and reality, between intention and transformation.

In our work across India and internationally, we have seen that community-driven initiatives create the most sustainable change. Whether it is women’s empowerment, youth leadership, peace education, menstrual hygiene awareness, or interfaith dialogue, change becomes lasting when people themselves become stakeholders in the process.

India’s strength lies in its diversity. But diversity can become a challenge if not guided by dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. Therefore, peacebuilding must be integrated into development efforts. Economic growth without social harmony leads to instability, whereas inclusive growth nurtures unity and national strength.

I would also like to emphasise the importance of youth engagement. India’s demographic dividend can become its greatest asset only if young people are provided with values, skills, and opportunities. Youth must be encouraged not only to seek jobs, but also to become job creators, social innovators, and responsible global citizens.

Women's empowerment deserves special mention. A nation cannot progress if half of its population is left behind. Empowering women is not a matter of charity—it is a matter of justice, equality, and national development. When women rise, families prosper, communities grow stronger, and nations advance.

As social workers and change-makers, we must move beyond short-term interventions. We need long-term vision, collaboration, and collective leadership. Partnerships between government bodies, civil society, academia, the corporate sector, and international organisations are essential to address complex social challenges.

Today’s seminar is not just a platform for discussion; it is a call to action. Let us commit ourselves to building an India that is not only economically strong but also socially just, morally grounded, and peaceful.

Let us work together to create an India where development is inclusive, opportunities are equal, and peace becomes a way of life—not just a concept.

I conclude by saying that the future of India depends not only on policies and plans, but on people with purpose, compassion, and courage. I am confident that with collective efforts, shared values, and unwavering commitment, we can truly realise the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Thank you once again for this opportunity.Jai Hind.