A Conversation with the Co-Chairs of the India Conference at Harvard 2025

The India Conference at Harvard 2025 is set to be more than just a gathering; it's a powerful conversation about India's evolving influence on the global stage. In this exclusive interview, the co-chairs Arpit Garg (HBS 2025), Sanchie Shroff (HBS 2025), Kartik Sahni (HBS, HKS 2025) and Ayush Shukla (HKS 2025) share their inspirations, the meaning behind this year’s theme, and what attendees can look forward to at the event.

Why did you take on the role of co-chair?
“For me, this conference is about building bridges and celebrating India’s contributions to the world,” says Arpit Garg, who has been away from India for over a decade. “It’s been a meaningful way to reconnect with India and to create a space where others can feel inspired and connect.”

Ayush echoes a similar sentiment: “The India Conference felt like the best way to contribute to dialogue around India at one of the most globally respected academic spaces. It’s about engaging with leaders to create sustainable partnerships as a means of exchange between India and the world.”

For Sanchie Shroff, it was about pride and passion. “Last year, leading the consumer panel was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my time at HBS. It inspired me to take on a larger role this year to showcase India’s progress and foster meaningful connections.”

What does this year’s theme, ‘From India to the World,’ mean to you?
“India is increasingly seen as a contributor on the global stage,” says Kartik. “Whether it’s navigating diplomatic relationships, building economic and technical capabilities, or tackling global megatrends like climate change, India’s role is being watched with growing interest.”

Sanchie shares a personal connection to the theme: “Coming from Bihar, the poorest state in India, I’ve experienced how resilience and ambition can drive extraordinary outcomes. This theme captures the spirit of a nation that is now shaping narratives, industries, and innovations worldwide.”

Arpit adds, “This year’s theme builds on last year’s theme, ‘India Rising.’ It’s about how India is now influencing the world with its ideas, talent, and innovations—a leader, not just a follower.”

What do you see as ICH’s role in shaping global perceptions of India?

“ICH is a bridge between India and the world,” explains Ayush. “It’s a platform to showcase India’s diversity and to have constructive conversations about its challenges and contributions. The goal is to catalyze tangible outcomes through these dialogues.”

“Our speakers exemplify India’s transformative impact,” adds Sanchie. “Whether it’s Sabyasachi Mukherjee revolutionizing Indian wedding fashion or Nita Ambani discussing philanthropy and culture, these voices help us reframe global perceptions of India.”

Which panels or speakers are you most excited about?

“It’s hard to choose, but I’m particularly excited about the Food & Culture panel,” says Arpit. “This is the first time we’ve included it in the conference, and it features Suvir Saran, the celebrated chef behind Dévi, the first Indian restaurant in the U.S. to earn a Michelin star. Food is such an integral part of Indian culture, and Suvir embodies that perfectly. He will share insights on how Indian cuisine is making waves globally, the role of food in shaping cultural identity, and what the future holds for Indian gastronomy.”

Sanchie highlights other must-see sessions: “Pramath Raj Sinha’s session will be incredible. He’ll share his journey in building institutions like Ashoka University and ISB. And, of course, Nita Ambani’s session on philanthropy and culture promises to be a highlight.”

The conference has two exciting new initiatives this year: the startup pitch competition and policy hackathon. What’s the story behind these?

“We wanted to transform the conference from passive dialogue to active participation,” explains Kartik. “The pitch competition celebrates India’s entrepreneurial spirit, with more than $15,000 in non-dilutive funding for innovative ventures. The policy hackathon, in partnership with the Indian School of Business, engages participants in crafting solutions for climate risks, with over $10,000 in cash prizes.”

Sanchie adds, “These initiatives are deeply personal to us. They’re about empowering changemakers and ensuring the conference has a lasting impact.”

If you were pitching this conference in a single sentence, what would you say?

“The India Conference at Harvard is your front-row seat to India’s transformation—from a rising nation to a global powerhouse—where visionary leaders, innovators, and changemakers come together to inspire, engage, and shape the future,” says Sanchie, summing it up perfectly.

This year’s India Conference at Harvard promises to not only spark conversations but also catalyze action. As the co-chairs emphasized, it’s not just an event—it’s a movement to elevate India’s stories, foster meaningful connections, and shape global perceptions. Join us in this transformative journey by attending the conference and engaging with visionaries who are shaping the future. 

Mark your calendars for February 15-16, 2025, and don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of something truly impactful. 

Explore more at: https://www.indiaconferenceharvard.com