A One Day “Seminar on G20 New Delhi Leadership Declaration and Emerging World Order – INDIA’s Cutting-edge Energy Technologies on Clean Energy” was organised in Alagappa University, Karaikudi on 3rd November 2023 at the University Convocation Auditorium.

Presiding over the inaugural event, Hon’ble Governor of Tamil Nadu Thiru R.N. Ravi highlighted the relevance of the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” adopted at the G20 New Delhi Summit and said how it underscored India’s cherished faith in the dictum that “We Are One Earth, One Family, and We Share One Future”. The declaration of this time-tested idea will significantly influence the entire world, he added. Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India’s G20 agenda as “inclusive, ambitious, action-oriented, and decisive”, the Governor said that India’s experiences and successes will help the world in finding solutions for many global challenges, especially to save the earth from carbon emission and other economic issues.

Further he stated that India is looked upon as a leader and it is at a defining moment in history. The choices the world community make now will determine the fate of our people and our planet. The challenges the world encounter today impact not only the global economy but also the lives and livelihoods of millions, particularly the most vulnerable. Our commitment is to pursue development models for building a global system that better empowers nations to tackle the challenges we face and foster prosperity and well-being for all. He referred to the declaration that emphasised our commitment to clean, sustainable, just, affordable and inclusive energy transitions. The G20 nations remain committed to achieving global net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and carbon neutrality by 2070.

He also said that India is emerging as a global leader in renewable energy, reflecting our commitment to a sustainable future. It also stands in the forr front in terms of installed wind energy capacity and solar installed capacity. He concluded by saying that it is in the best interest of all nations to support and collaborate with India and other leaders in the clean energy sector to create a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable future for generations to come. The Governor appreciated Alagappa University for its research endeavours for the production of hydrogen energy.

Prof. G. Ravi, Vice-Chancellor, Alagappa University, in his welcome address, said that Alagappa University has also joined with the global community to convert light energy into electric current using the photovoltaic effect. Currently, 17KW of solar panels are being used along with electricity and efforts are in pipeline to construct a 650 KW Solar Power Plant on a 4-acre stretch at an investment of Rs. 6.5 Crore. This plant will be maintained by the Department of Energy Science of the University to provide hands-on learning experience for the students. The University is also taking several research initiatives in Green Hydrogen Production and the University is currently working on a consortium project from DST-ICMAP along with nine other important national institutions to produce green hydrogen.

Prof.M.Krishnan, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Thiruvarur in his felicitation address outlined four important steps on achieving clean and green energy such as evolving a policy, working methodology, awareness creation and engaging the people.

Prof.M.Selvam, Vice-Chancellor, Bharathidasan University, Trichy in his felicitation address explained that there are eight groups working under G20 with different dimensions. Now, it has become G20+1 with 65% population, 75% of GDP, 85% of world trade and 90% of patents.

Prof.J.Jeyakanthan, Dean, Faculty of Science and an Organizing Secretary of the seminar presented the thematic address and said that the seminar would provide a forum for exchanging information on cutting-edge technologies on clean and green energy.

Before inaugurating the seminar the Hon’ble Governor planted a tree sampling in front of the Administrative Building and also inaugurated a battery bicycle and a battery operated car.

Prof.S.Rajamohan, Registrar i/c proposed a vote of thanks at the end of inaugural function.

Thiru.S.Prasanna Ramasamy, Deputy Secretary to the Governor, Tmt. Asha Ajith, I.A.S., District Collector, Sivagangai, Supt. of Police, Sivagangai District, Dr.Vairavan Ramanathan, Life Syndicate Member, other Syndicate Members Dr.R.Swaminathan, Dr.K.Gunasekaran, Dr.M.L.Raja, Dr.V.Palanisamy, Dr.S.Rajaram and Dr.C.Sekar, University Officials, Police and Revenue officials of Sivagangai District, VIPs from Karaikudi, Deans of various Faculties, Heads of Departments, Administrative Staff, Research Scholars and Students participated in the event.